Hospitals, clinics, and dental practices in Kenya will now be required to apply for new or renewed licences exclusively through a digital platform, following a directive issued by the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) on Tuesday, May 20.
The Council announced a full transition from manual paperwork to a digital registration system as part of a broader initiative to modernize healthcare regulation and service delivery. The move is expected to boost transparency, efficiency, and data security across the health sector.
“In a move to modernize healthcare regulation, KMPDC has launched a fully digital health facility registration system. This initiative aligns with the Council’s broader mandate to streamline operations, promote transparency, and enhance service delivery,” read the official statement.
KMPDC CEO David Kariuki emphasized that the digital shift is in line with Kenya’s national digital transformation agenda, which seeks to integrate technology into public service systems and governance.
To register under the new system, applicants must provide the facility name, location, and classification; details of directors; available personnel and services; and certified documentation demonstrating compliance with health regulations. The process is fully automated, with real-time validation and auditing to prevent delays and enhance accountability.
“Applications will be processed within 21 working days following inspection, and updates will be sent via email at each stage,” said Kariuki.
KMPDC has cautioned health facilities that incomplete or false information will lead to automatic rejection of their applications. “Any discrepancies result in rejection, underscoring the need for accurate and honest submissions,” Kariuki noted.
The Council also addressed concerns over data security, assuring stakeholders that the system is compliant with the Data Protection Act, 2019. All data entered into the portal is encrypted to ensure confidentiality and prevent unauthorized access.
While the shift has been praised as a necessary step in ending the era of tedious paperwork and delayed registrations, some stakeholders have raised concerns about digital accessibility, particularly in rural regions with unstable internet connectivity.
KMPDC says it will continue working with partners to ensure smooth implementation and support facilities facing technological challenges during the transition.