Mama Lucy Kibaki Hospital has dismissed allegations circulating on social media over the treatment of a patient, saying an internal review of the patient's medical records does not support the claims being made online.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Nairobi County hospital said it had reviewed the matter after the allegations attracted public attention, but maintained that the available records did not substantiate the accusations.
"Mama Lucy Kibaki Hospital is aware of allegations circulating on social media concerning the treatment of a patient at the hospital," the statement read."We recognise that concerns regarding patient care are serious and may cause understandable concern among patients, their families and the public. The hospital has reviewed the relevant records relating to this matter."
According to the hospital, the patient at the centre of the controversy had been referred from another health facility for specialised treatment.
"The patient whose case has been referenced on social media was referred to Mama Lucy Kibaki Hospital from another health facility for further management. Following a review of the available records, the hospital's position is that it does not support the allegations currently being circulated," the hospital said.
Despite disputing the claims, the hospital said it would not provide further details about the patient's treatment, citing its legal and ethical obligation to protect patient privacy.
"While the hospital would ordinarily wish to address inaccurate assertions made in the public domain, it remains bound by its ethical, professional and legal obligations to safeguard patient confidentiality," the statement read.
"Accordingly, the hospital will not disclose confidential medical information or engage in public discussion of an individual patient's care. This obligation applies irrespective of whether aspects of a patient's medical history have been disclosed by the patient or by any other person."
The hospital confirmed that the matter has been referred to the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC), the statutory body responsible for investigating complaints against medical practitioners and health facilities.
It said it had already submitted its response to the council and would cooperate fully with any investigations or processes undertaken by the regulator.
"The complaint has been referred to the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC), the independent statutory body mandated to consider matters of this nature. Mama Lucy Kibaki Hospital has submitted its response to the Council and will continue to cooperate fully with its processes," the hospital said.
The hospital's Board of Directors and management also sought to reassure patients and the public that the facility remains committed to maintaining high standards of healthcare.
"The Board of Directors and Management of Mama Lucy Kibaki Hospital wish to reassure our patients, partners, and the public that the hospital remains unwavering in its commitment to patient safety, quality healthcare, ethical medical practice, and professional accountability," the hospital said in a statement.