The Kenya Medical Association (KMA) now says action needs to be taken against perpetrators of medical fraud involving the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) in some health facilities.
This follows recent allegations that NHIF was minting millions of shillings through rogue hospitals.
It also emerged that some Kenyans had lost money through dubious payments by individuals claiming to be employees of NHIF.
"These acts of fraud not only undermine the trust placed in healthcare providers but also jeopardize the health and well-being of the patients seeking medical care.
"The Kenya Medical Association strongly condemns any form of medical fraud and is committed to working towards eradicating such practices from our healthcare system," said the association's Secretary General Dr. Diana Marion.
KMA has vowed to take necessary action if any of its members are found guilty.
"We believe in upholding the highest standards of medical ethics and professionalism as evidenced by our Code of Conduct, which our members are bound by.
"It is imperative that those found guilty of fraudulent activities are held accountable and face appropriate legal consequences. We support the action taken by the Ministry of Health and urge them to strengthen regulatory bodies by providing them with adequate resources to conduct audits, investigations, and inspections which help detect and prevent fraud," said Marion.
Additionally, the medical association has called on the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) to implement mechanisms to protect whistleblowers who report fraud.
"We note that medical ethics and standards are threatened when there is no proper and standardized coordination between the regulator and professional associations. There is an urgent need for the establishment of well-defined structures to support self-regulation of the medical profession.
"KMA is ready to work collaboratively with KMPDC to make self-regulation a reality in Kenya. We also call upon the public to remain vigilant and report any suspected cases of medical fraud to the appropriate authorities."
