Kenyatta University Teaching and Referral Hospital
The Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) has launched investigations into a troubling incident in which a child was allegedly detained at a private health facility in Eastleigh, Nairobi.
In a statement released Wednesday, the council said it was deeply concerned by the reports, which it said amounted to a breach of trust and one that undermines the integrity of Kenya's healctcare systems.
The hospital is said to have held the child in custody after the bill accrued, sparking public outrage and calls for accountability.
“The detention of a child due to an unpaid medical bill is wholly unacceptable, constitutes a serious breach of trust, and undermines the integrity of Kenya’s healthcare system,” said KMPDC chief executive officer Dr David Kariuki.
KMPDC confirmed it has since intervened, facilitating the immediate transfer of the child to Kenyatta University Teaching and Referral Hospital for continued care.
The council is working with relevant authorities to ensure those responsible are held accountable in line with the law and KMPDC’s regulatory framework.
The council further urged all healthcare institutions across the country to strengthen patient protection measures, improve reporting systems, and prioritise ethical and compassionate care.
“The detention of patients, particularly vulnerable individuals such as children, violates the principles of compassionate and professional healthcare delivery,” Kariuki stated.
KMPDC reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the highest standards of medical care and pledged to take decisive action to prevent similar incidents, while ensuring that patient rights remain protected.
Reports indicated that the child was reportedly meant to be transferred to Kenyatta National Hospital but was instead taken to the Eastleigh facility due to a referral mix-up.
His stay at the private facility has reportedly acrrued a Sh3 million medical bill, which the family is unable to pay.
Detention of patients over unpaid bills is a common practice in the country despite the act being against the law.
Article 29(f) of the constituton states: "Every person has the right to freedom and security of the person, which includes the right not to be detained without trial except as permitted by law."
Article 28 adds: "Every person has inherent dignity and the right to have that dignity respected and protected."
Detaining someone, especially a vulnerable person like a child, over debt violates these rights.
