ISO 7101:2023 Standard: A New Era for Healthcare Management in Kenya

𝐍𝐚𝐢𝐫𝐨𝐛𝐢, 𝐊𝐞𝐧𝐲𝐚 - 𝟐𝟏𝐬𝐭 𝐉𝐚𝐧𝐮𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 

 In a significant step toward transforming healthcare management in Kenya, the Principal Secretary for Medical Services, Mr Harry Kimtai in collaboration with top leadership from the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS), including Managing Director Mrs. Esther Ngari, and Dr. Wilson K. Aruasa, a member of the President’s Council of Economic Advisors on Health, convened to discuss the implementation of the newly introduced ISO 7101:2023 Standard. 

This standard represents a progressive framework designed to address the challenges of a rapidly evolving healthcare landscape, ensuring quality service delivery across the sector. 

The ISO 7101:2023 Standard provides a global benchmark for healthcare management systems, with an emphasis on the core pillars that drive healthcare excellence: leadership, risk management, operational efficiency, and continuous improvement. 

These components are essential for the delivery of high-quality healthcare services and will be crucial in supporting the ambitious reforms being rolled out within the sector. 

As highlighted by the Principal Secretary, the adoption of the ISO 7101:2023 Standard aligns closely with Kenya’s commitment to achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC). The standard will be adopted by National Referral Hospitals, County Hospitals, and the Ministry of Health, in partnership with the Council of Governors. 

This marks a significant move toward a unified approach to healthcare delivery, ensuring that all levels of the healthcare system adhere to the same high standards of quality. 

The implementation of ISO 7101:2023 is expected to set new benchmarks in healthcare management, paving the way for improved healthcare outcomes for all Kenyans. 

With the government’s continued focus on reforms, the standard will play an instrumental role in achieving the vision of a healthier and more resilient healthcare system.