Faith Masita
The Pharmaceutical Society of Kenya (PSK) has expressed strong disapproval over the unauthorised filming and sharing of a video showing former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua buying medication at a local pharmacy, calling the act a serious breach of patient privacy and healthcare confidentiality.
In a statement, PSK stressed that pharmacies are health-care environments where customers are entitled to dignity, discretion and protection of their personal health information. The society said secretly recording anyone inside a pharmacy without their consent goes against basic ethical and professional standards.
PSK President Dr. Wairimu Mbogo reiterated that confidentiality is a core professional obligation for all pharmacy professionals, who take an oath to prioritise patient welfare, safeguard sensitive information and promote the safe use of medicines.
The association also said it is investigating the pharmacy and individuals involved to confirm the licensing status of staff present at the outlet and determine whether regulatory action is justified. “This incident underscores the critical importance of ensuring that pharmacy outlets operate under the supervision of qualified and licensed professionals,” the statement noted.
PSK emphasized that a person’s public profile does not diminish their right to confidential healthcare services and expressed regret over the apparent privacy violation.
In a statement, PSK stressed that pharmacies are health-care environments where customers are entitled to dignity, discretion and protection of their personal health information. The society said secretly recording anyone inside a pharmacy without their consent goes against basic ethical and professional standards.
PSK President Dr. Wairimu Mbogo reiterated that confidentiality is a core professional obligation for all pharmacy professionals, who take an oath to prioritise patient welfare, safeguard sensitive information and promote the safe use of medicines.
The association also said it is investigating the pharmacy and individuals involved to confirm the licensing status of staff present at the outlet and determine whether regulatory action is justified. “This incident underscores the critical importance of ensuring that pharmacy outlets operate under the supervision of qualified and licensed professionals,” the statement noted.
PSK emphasized that a person’s public profile does not diminish their right to confidential healthcare services and expressed regret over the apparent privacy violation.
