When to seek emergency care now
The following examples may indicate a serious or life-threatening problem. This is not a complete list. Trust your judgment when someone appears severely unwell.
- Severe difficulty breathing
- Severe chest pain or pressure
- Loss of consciousness
- New weakness on one side
- Convulsions or repeated seizures
- Heavy or uncontrolled bleeding
- Severe allergic reaction
- Major injury or serious burn
- Pregnancy with heavy bleeding
- Suicidal intent or immediate danger
Do not book a routine appointment for an emergency
Call Kenya’s emergency numbers, 999 or 112, where available; proceed to the nearest emergency department; or activate the emergency process available in your facility or county.
What cannot be assessed fully online
Even a high-quality video or telephone consultation may not provide the information obtained through physical examination, vital-sign measurement, diagnostic testing or observation over time.
A clinician may end or redirect a remote consultation if the situation is unsuitable, the connection is inadequate, essential information is unavailable or urgent in-person care appears necessary.
Your safety checklist before consultation
- Use a quiet and private location where you can speak freely.
- Confirm that your device has power, a stable connection and working audio.
- Have your identification, medicines, allergies and relevant records ready.
- Write down the main concern, when it started and what makes it better or worse.
- Have a trusted adult nearby if you may need assistance.
- Tell the clinician your physical location at the start if urgent escalation may be required.
- Do not drive or operate machinery during the consultation.
Medicine safety
Do not start, stop, share or change the dose of prescription medicine solely because of general website information. During consultation, state the exact medicine name, strength, dose, frequency and any reactions. If you are uncertain, show the original packaging where possible.
Website information is educational
Content on Lifam Doctor does not create a diagnosis or treatment plan by itself. Individual decisions require appropriate professional assessment.
Children and dependent adults
A parent, legal guardian or responsible caregiver should participate when required. Safeguarding concerns, consent limitations or inability to assess the person safely may require referral to an in-person service.
After the consultation
- Make sure you understand the working assessment and next steps.
- Ask which changes should trigger urgent or earlier review.
- Confirm how and when follow-up should occur.
- Use only the agreed portal or communication pathway for health information.
- Seek further care if symptoms worsen or the expected improvement does not occur.
Frequently asked questions
Does booking guarantee that online care is suitable?
No. Suitability depends on the concern and information available. The clinician may recommend immediate or planned in-person assessment.
Can I use Lifam Doctor instead of emergency services?
No. Lifam Doctor is not an ambulance or emergency-response service.
Can general information diagnose my condition?
No. Educational content cannot replace an individual clinical assessment.