Medics warn against unsafe surgical practices

A section of medics have raised concerns over the inappropriate delegation of surgical responsibilities in health facilities across Kenya.

In a joint statement issued Thursday, February 20, the Kenya Medical Association (KMA) and the Kenya Obstetrical and Gynecological Society (KOGS) called on stakeholders to prioritise safety and quality in maternal healthcare.

They noted that obstetric and gynecological surgery requires specialised training, continuous competency assessments, and strict adherence to globally accepted medical and surgical safety standards.

“In recent times, there have been increasing demands by clinical officers and other allied health care providers to independently conduct surgical procedures, including Caesarean sections,” the statement co-authored by KMA Secretary-General Diana Marion and KOGS President Kireki Omanwa reads in part.

“The independent performance of such procedures by individuals without the requisite surgical training, accreditation, and oversight directly endangers the lives of mothers and newborns.

The two organisations further urged stakeholders to uphold professional standards, strengthen surgical training programs, enhance oversight and regulation, and engage in meaningful consultations to ensure patient safety.

“Our responsibility, as regulated professionals by KMPDC and custodians of medical ethics and professional standards, is to ensure that every Kenyan receives quality healthcare that aligns with best medical practices, established legal frameworks, and global patient safety guidelines,”

The warning comes weeks after the Ministry of Health launched an investigation into the botched plastic surgery of Lucy Wambui Ng'ang'a at Body by Design clinic, located at Omnicare Medical Limited.

Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni directed the Kenya Health Professional Oversight Authority (KHPOA) to submit a report within 30 days. Additionally, the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) was tasked with inspecting similar facilities countrywide to ensure compliance with health standards.

Following the probe, authorities ordered the closure of several health facilities found to be operating below the required standards.

Wambui, who underwent the procedure last year, later died and was buried at her home in Redhill, Kiambu.

The clinic was shut down after investigations revealed violations of medical regulations under Sections 4 and 15 of the Medical Practitioners and Dentists Act (Cap 253).