Ministry of Health Closes Over 500 Hospitals, Clinics for Flouting Licensing Rules

Ministry of Health Closes Over 500 Hospitals, Clinics for Flouting Licensing Rules

The Ministry of Health has shut down more than 500 hospitals and clinics across Kenya, sparking panic among patients and health workers.

In a gazette notice dated Friday, August 29, the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) confirmed the closure of 544 health facilities and revoked the licenses of 454 hospitals.

Why the Closure Happened

According to KMPDC, many of the affected facilities were either unregistered or operating without proper licenses.

“It is notified for the general information of the public that the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council, in accordance with section 15 (11) and section 22 (5), has closed the following premises for being used as health institutions without being duly registered or licensed,” the notice read in part.

Officials revealed that some clinics had employed unqualified staff, while others lacked essential infrastructure such as pharmacies, maternity wards, and laboratories.

Risk to Patients

The council further noted that some facilities were operating in appalling conditions.

“We found poor sanitation, weak waste disposal systems, and facilities that posed a direct threat to patient health,” KMPDC said.

The crackdown follows the 2022 Inspections and Licensing Rules under the Medical Practitioners and Dentists Act. The rules demand strict annual inspections and license renewals.

The Inspection Drive

The closure came after a nationwide inspection of 288 facilities. Out of these, 158 were suspended, while 28 were downgraded. Another 105 facilities passed the inspection and were allowed to continue operations.

KMPDC emphasized that non-compliant hospitals risk permanent closure if they fail to meet basic safety standards.

“These measures are meant to protect Kenyans from unsafe and illegal medical practices,” officials explained.

Nairobi Tops the List

The published list showed Nairobi City County leading with more than 200 facilities closed. Other affected counties include Homa Bay, Kisii, Wajir, and Mandera.

The council assured the public that the crackdown was not meant to deny health services but to restore order and protect lives.

What This Means for Kenyans

While many Kenyans welcomed the move, others expressed fear about reduced access to healthcare, especially in rural counties.

The Ministry urged the public to only seek services in registered facilities. Patients were also advised to confirm licensing before treatment.

KMPDC warned that rogue practitioners would face legal action, promising more inspections in the coming months

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Ministry of Health Closes Over 500 Hospitals, Clinics for Flouting Licensing Rules