Regulatory Overhaul for Emergency Medical Services

NAIROBI, Kenya – In a significant move to regulate Kenya's pre-hospital care sector, the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) has directed that all ambulance service providers and their personnel must be formally registered with the council. The announcement, made on Friday, November 21, 2025, by KMPDC Chief Executive Officer David Kariuki, marks a pivotal step towards standardizing emergency medical services nationwide.

The directive applies universally to all ambulances, whether public, private, or operated by non-governmental organizations, and to all emergency care personnel, including paramedics, emergency medical technicians (EMTs), and ambulance operators. This comprehensive registration is a core component of enforcing the Health Act of 2017 and the Medical Practitioners and Dentists Act (Cap 253), which empower the KMPDC to oversee the quality and safety of healthcare services.

"We are registering all ambulance service providers and personnel to ensure the enhancement of the access and quality of pre-hospital healthcare," Kariuki stated. He emphasized that this initiative is crucial for bringing order to a sector that has historically operated with inconsistent oversight, leading to disparities in the quality of care Kenyans receive during critical emergencies.

Integration with Social Health Authority (SHA)

A key driver for this regulatory action is the operationalization of the new Social Health Authority (SHA), which has replaced the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF). Specifically, the registration will support the Emergency, Critical Care, and Chronic Illness Fund (ECCIF), one of three major funds managed by the SHA. This fund is designed to protect Kenyans from the catastrophic costs associated with emergencies and critical illnesses. By creating a verified registry of legitimate ambulance providers and qualified personnel, the SHA can ensure that payments from the ECCIF are channeled to credible operators who meet national standards.

The ECCIF, funded through government appropriations, aims to enhance accessibility and promote health equity by ensuring all persons can access emergency treatment, including pre-hospital care. The successful implementation of this fund relies heavily on a well-regulated system of emergency response. The KMPDC's registry will provide the necessary foundation for this system, allowing for streamlined and accountable service delivery.

Registration Requirements and Compliance

To comply with the directive, ambulance service providers are required to submit several key documents, including their Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) PIN, business registration number, and the identification details of their directors for verification. Emergency medical practitioners must create a professional profile detailing their qualifications, contact information, and service category. Application forms and detailed guidelines have been made available for download on the KMPDC's official website, with submissions accepted via email or in person at their offices.

The council has warned that failure to register will result in significant sanctions. Unregistered entities and individuals will be prohibited from operating ambulances or providing any emergency medical services in the country. "Compliance with this registration requirement is mandatory and will guarantee that patients receive timely and professional emergency care," Kariuki affirmed, underscoring the council's commitment to enforcing the new standards.

Implications for Kenya's Healthcare System

This move is part of a broader effort to reform and strengthen Kenya's healthcare infrastructure. The government has identified emergency medical care as a critical component of achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC). The Kenya Emergency Medical Care Policy (2020-2030) and the accompanying strategy aim to establish a coordinated and efficient national emergency system. However, challenges such as inadequate equipment, poor road infrastructure, and insufficient funding have hampered progress, as highlighted in a 2023 Auditor-General report on Kajiado County.

The standardization of ambulance services is a foundational step. The Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) has long had specifications for different categories of ambulances, such as Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Life Support (ALS), but enforcement has been inconsistent. The KMPDC's mandatory registration is expected to drive compliance with these standards, ensuring vehicles are properly equipped for their designated level of care.

While the directive has been widely seen as a positive step, it has not been without friction. In September 2025, the Council of Governors (CoG) initially rejected the directive, arguing it duplicated roles and undermined the authority of county governments in managing local health services. However, subsequent discussions between the Ministry of Health and the CoG have focused on collaboration, particularly regarding the SHA, suggesting a path towards resolving these jurisdictional concerns for the benefit of a unified national standard. The ultimate goal is to build a resilient and reliable emergency response system that every Kenyan can depend on, regardless of their location or economic status.