Kenya to launch new health authority to ensure quality care and patient safety

Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni speaks to residents in Murang'a on June 24, 2025./HANDOUT

The Ministry of Health is set to establish a new Quality Health Care and Patient Safety Authority to enforce medical standards across Kenya.

Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni announced the move during the first public participation forum for the Quality of Health and Patient Safety Bill, 2025.

Muthoni said the country needs a strong regulatory body to oversee health service providers and protect patients from unsafe practices.

“Patients are too often exposed to substandard conditions, with services offered in poorly built facilities and by unqualified staff,” she said.

Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni speaks to residents in Murang'a on June 24, 2025./HANDOUT

This, she explained, affects the quality of care Kenyans receive when seeking medical attention, especially in the growing number of unregulated health centers.

“The Quality of Health and Patient Safety Bill will be a game changer. It aims to restore dignity and safety within Kenya’s healthcare system,” Muthoni added.

Speaking in Murang’a County, the PS emphasized that the legislation will help hold healthcare providers to account and safeguard patients’ rights.

Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni speaks to residents and experts in Murang'a on June 24, 2025./HANDOUT

It will also compel health facilities to adopt best practices set by the new authority.

“A penalty of up to Sh50 million will be imposed for cases of gross negligence,” she warned.

The bill will give Kenyans across all 47 counties an opportunity to review, adopt, or recommend changes during a series of public forums, ensuring it reflects the needs and priorities of both patients and providers.