Medical Council Condemns ‘Faith Healing’ Claims by Practitioners, Warns Public

The Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) has issued a stern warning against medical professionals promoting unverified “faith healing” for serious illnesses, following alarming claims made during a religious event in Nakuru.

In an official statement signed by its Chief Executive Officer, Dr. David G. Kariuki, the statutory regulator expressed “profound concerns” over reports that certain practitioners claimed faith-based healing could cure conditions such as HIV/AIDS, cancer, blindness, deafness, and physical disabilities.

The Council “unequivocally condemns such statements by medical practitioners, which are based on unverified claims,” emphasising that they endanger public health and violate professional ethics.

Evidence-Based Medicine is Paramount

KMPDC stressed that all legitimate medical treatment must be grounded in scientific evidence and regulatory approval. The statement warned that unsubstantiated claims, especially from health professionals, can mislead vulnerable patients, causing them to abandon proven therapies.

“This may lead to worsened health outcomes, drug resistance, or loss of life,” the Council stated.

Public Advised Against Abandoning Treatment

While acknowledging the role of faith, KMPDC strongly advised the public not to stop prescribed treatments for chronic conditions like HIV/AIDS, diabetes, or hypertension in favour of unproven alternatives. Such actions, it noted, directly contradict established public health guidelines.

Investigation and Enforcement Underway

The Council confirmed it is collaborating with the Ministry of Health and other agencies to investigate the Nakuru claims. It pledged to take “appropriate actions,” including potential legal measures, against any practitioner found endangering lives or spreading medical misinformation.

KMPDC reassured citizens of Kenya’s robust healthcare system and its commitment to evidence-based care. The public is urged to report any suspicious healing claims to authorities for verification.

“Your health and well-being remain our top priority,” Dr. Kariuki concluded, “and we are committed to fostering a safe, informed, and ethical healthcare environment.”