A family in Kawangware is seeking justice after their kin died from complications, days after a botched dental procedure.
The deceased, Amos Isoka, is alleged to have sought tooth extraction services from a local physician in a local clinic move that changed the course of his life.
His condition worsened, forcing him to seek medical attention. Amos returned to the clinic seeking further medical attention and a referral letter. He claimed the practitioner dismissed his concerns and declined to issue a transfer note, despite having carried out the procedure.
The deceased stated before his death that when he went back, he was told to go for a scan at Mbagathi. A transfer letter was requested from him, as he had been the one who treated him, but he was told that it was none of his business.
The family later rushed him to Wema Hospital, where doctors suspected that his condition may have been caused by the use of unsterilised dental equipment. He was admitted and placed on strong medication, including antibiotics, but showed little improvement.
Amos was later transferred to Kenyatta National Hospital, where he was admitted for a week. His condition deteriorated further, and he died after developing serious chest and breathing complications.
Speaking after his death, Amos’s wife said doctors informed her that he required chest surgery after developing pressure-related complications overnight. She said his condition worsened suddenly, leading to respiratory failure.
“I was told that Amos needed chest surgery because he had developed pressure issues the previous night. He stopped breathing and was taken for CPR, but he passed away at around 11 p.m.,” she said.
She further expressed anguish over what she described as a lack of compassion following his death, saying she was immediately asked to clear hospital bills.
“I was told Amos has passed on and that I should clear the bill. I was confused — should I clear the bill or focus on looking at my husband’s body? I am appealing to the government for help so that we can take Amos back home to Kitale,” she said.
Amos’ brother said the family is dissatisfied with how the matter has been handled and is now seeking justice, not compensation.
“We are not happy because the doctor involved treated us poorly. All we are seeking is justice. We do not have the money. Amos and I were the ones supporting our mother,” he said
The Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) has since confirmed that the medical facility involved in the botched procedure has been operating unlawfully.
