A pharmacy in Kenya is facing intense scrutiny after a video surfaced online showing former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua purchasing and consuming medicine.
The footage, which was recorded without his consent, has sparked a national debate over patient privacy and professional ethics.
The Pharmaceutical Society of Kenya (PSK) has reacted swiftly to the incident. In a strongly worded statement, the professional body condemned the recording as a serious breach of healthcare standards.
A Fundamental Breach of Privacy
The PSK, which represents pharmacists nationwide, made its position clear on social media. The organisation stated that pharmacies are healthcare environments where every individual deserves dignity and discretion.
According to the PSK, recording any client in such a setting without their permission is a violation of both privacy and healthcare confidentiality.
They reminded the public and practitioners that protecting personal health information is a fundamental ethical obligation, not an optional choice.
“Recording any client within a pharmacy setting without consent constitutes a serious breach of privacy and healthcare confidentiality,” they said.
The Professional Oath
In Kenya, pharmacists and pharmaceutical technologists are regulated by law. They are bound by strict professional codes of conduct. Upon qualifying, these professionals take an oath to put patient welfare first and to uphold confidentiality at all times.
The PSK highlighted that pharmacists undergo advanced university training to handle clinical decisions and patient safety. This incident has raised concerns about whether those present at the outlet followed these core values.
Investigation Underway
The PSK is now taking steps to identify the specific pharmacy and the individuals involved. They are verifying the licensing status of the outlet to determine what regulatory actions are necessary.
“PSK is undertaking due diligence to verify the identity and licensing status of the outlet and the professionals involved so that appropriate regulatory steps may be taken if necessary,” the letter added.
Dr Wairimu Mbogo, the President of the PSK, signed the official statement. She emphasised that every Kenyan, regardless of their public profile or status, has a right to confidential healthcare.
“Regardless of public profile or status, every Kenyan has the right to confidential healthcare.”
Protecting Public Trust
This incident highlights the importance of having qualified and licensed professionals in charge of pharmacy outlets. The PSK argues that properly trained personnel are essential for maintaining public trust and the integrity of the healthcare system.
While the video of Gachagua continues to circulate, the pharmaceutical industry is focused on ensuring such a lapse in professional conduct does not happen again. The investigation into the identity of the pharmacy staff continues as the professional body seeks to safeguard the standards of pharmaceutical practice in Kenya.
