Anambra Commissioner for Health
Dr. Afam Obidike has prohibited Individuals and Corporate bodies in the state from conducting medical outreaches without prior approval from Ministry of Health.
Angel Network News (ANN) reports that Dr. Obidike stated this in a statement made available to newsmen in Awka, titled “Attention: General Public, Communities, NGOs Faith-Based Organizations, Public and Private Health Facility Owners among others”.
The Commissioner noted that the move will ensure patient safety, outreach aligns with best practices, and upholds public health standards in Anambra State.
While analysing why approval from the Ministry of Health before every medical outreach should be conducted, Dr. Obidike said it is for protecting public Health which in turn would prevent harm from unsafe procedures, counterfeit medications, or poor infection control.
“Ensuring high standards of care: guarantees outreach meets global healthcare standard, promotes synergy between stakeholders and the Ministry for impactful healthcare delivery.”
While showing steps to obtain this approval, the Statement said an application addressed to the Honourable Commissioner for Health must be submitted to the ministry indicating the details of the outreach including dates, locations, services, qualifications of health professionals and a list of medical supplies to be made.
There must also be an engagement with Local Communities vis-a-vis consulting with community leaders for smooth cooperation.
Other requirements for the submission of the application is to Ensure Safety Compliance where adherence will be made to infection prevention, waste disposal and emergency protocols.
The application is expected to be submitted on time, at least 30 days before the proposed outreach date.
Consequences of non-compliance to the directive is the stoppage of such exercise and violators would be liable to pay penalties, which would include payment of fines, license revocation, or legal action.
Dr Obidike said the Ministry of Health is in support of all efforts and will provide guidance to ensure successful, safe and impactful medical missions.
For more information, visit the Headquarters of the Health Ministry at the Jerome Udoji Secretariat, Awka or call the following hotlines – for emergency: 08057655442; for general complaints: 09135169905; and for anonymous reports 07013197263.
