KMPDC Raises Alarm Over Emerging Fake Doctors Online

The emergence of individuals claiming to be doctors and offering treatment via social media platforms in the country has raised concerns for the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC).

On Thursday, February 6, 2025, KMPDC issued a statement warning doctors who lack the necessary qualifications to be physicians.

“The Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council is worried about the growing number of online platforms where people pretending to be medical professionals offer misleading medical advice and treatment to unwary users,” KMPDC statement read in part.

“These ‘doctors’ represent a considerable threat to public health, as their diagnoses and treatment strategies frequently rely on unverified or outdated information. This can result in misdiagnoses, delayed diagnoses, or even the worsening of existing health issues.”

KMPDC warned that unqualified individuals who provide medical advice on social media could face penalties, including a five-year prison sentence or a fine of up to Ksh5 million.

Kenyans in need of medical attention or advice were urged by the council to confirm the legitimacy of their healthcare providers and facilities through the SMS platform offered by KMPDC.

Kariuki encouraged the public to confirm the legitimacy of health professionals and medical establishments by consulting KMPDC registers or using the SMS service.

“To confirm a doctor’s credentials, send P#Full Name of Practitioner or P# Registration number via SMS to 20547,” Kariuki stressed.

“To confirm a health facility, text: H#Full Name of Facility or Registration Number to 20547.”