NAIROBI, Kenya — Kenya’s healthcare sector is facing another potential disruption after more than 11,000 pharmaceutical technologists threatened to down their tools over new professional practice guidelines.

The dispute centres on guidelines adopted by the Pharmacy and Poisons Board, which the technologists say would prevent diploma-level practitioners from performing certain pharmacy-related duties in Level 3 and Level 4 healthcare facilities.

The affected professionals argue that diploma-level pharmaceutical technologists have received the required training and are properly approved and licensed to practise.

Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has rejected the interpretation that the new standards prevent diploma holders from practising, saying the guidelines do not bar diploma-level professionals or other pharmacy practitioners from working.

The disagreement has nevertheless created uncertainty among healthcare workers and raised concerns about the potential impact on medicine access if a large number of pharmaceutical technologists withdraw their services.

Pharmaceutical technologists play an important role in dispensing medicines and supporting pharmacy services, particularly in lower-level health facilities that serve communities outside major cities.

The dispute comes as Kenya's health system is already dealing with pressure from workforce shortages and industrial unrest involving other healthcare professionals.

Stakeholders are expected to continue discussions to resolve the disagreement and prevent a disruption to pharmaceutical services.

A negotiated solution could be critical for protecting both professional standards and uninterrupted access to essential medicines for patients across Kenya.