By Mandere Onyinkwa
The Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) has issued a warning to the public following a surge in claims that serious medical conditions can be cured through faith healing.
In a statement, the Council said it was deeply concerned by recent media reports and public gatherings where medical practitioners were allegedly linked to unverified claims of healing conditions such as HIV and AIDS, cancer, blindness and other chronic illnesses.
“These claims, attributed to certain medical practitioners during a religious crusade in Nakuru, have raised profound concerns regarding public health safety and professional ethics,” the Council said, stressing that such assertions put vulnerable patients at risk.
KMPDC reiterated that modern healthcare must be guided by science, not persuasion or belief alone.
“Evidence based medicine is paramount,” the statement read, adding that all treatments must be grounded in scientific evidence, rigorous testing and regulatory approval.
According to the Council, unsubstantiated claims can mislead patients, discourage them from seeking proven treatment and ultimately worsen health outcomes.
While acknowledging the place of faith in many people’s lives, the regulator cautioned against abandoning prescribed medication in favour of unproven alternatives.
“Relying solely on unverified healing methods for serious illnesses can pose grave risks,” KMPDC warned, particularly for patients living with HIV and AIDS, diabetes, hypertension and epilepsy.
The Council also announced that it is working closely with the Ministry of Health and other regulatory agencies to investigate the claims.
“Appropriate actions will be taken against any practitioner or health professional in order to safeguard public health,” the statement said, noting that legal measures could be pursued where lives are endangered or health regulations violated.
KMPDC Chief Executive Officer Dr David G Kariuki sought to reassure Kenyans that the country’s healthcare system remains strong.
“Your health and well being remain our top priority, and we are committed to fostering a safe, informed and ethical healthcare environment,” he said.
The Council urged members of the public to report any suspicious claims to the relevant authorities and encouraged patients to seek guidance from qualified healthcare professionals before making decisions about their treatment.