The Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) has launched an SMS verification service to help the public confirm the credentials of doctors, hospitals, and medical camps, aiming to curb fraudulent medical practitioners and enhance patient safety.
The system, accessed by sending a text to 20547, allows Kenyans to verify whether a doctor or facility is registered and licensed before seeking treatment.
KMPDC Chief Executive David Kariuki said the initiative provides an easy way for the public to avoid quack doctors.
“Patients can now confirm whether their doctors are registered and licensed before receiving services,” said Kariuki. “This will reduce cases of unqualified individuals operating illegally.”
The council said the platform covers all licensed medical personnel and facilities nationwide. Users must send an SMS with the practitioner's registration number or facility details to receive instant verification.
Cases of unlicensed medical practitioners have been on the rise, with authorities warning that fraudulent doctors endanger lives. KMPDC has urged the public to report any individuals or institutions that fail verification.
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“The law is clear on medical practice, and anyone caught practicing without a valid licence will be prosecuted,” said Kariuki.
The SMS verification service is part of broader regulatory reforms aimed at strengthening oversight, improving healthcare standards, and ensuring only qualified personnel provide medical services..
