By CHUKWUMA OFILI
- Health Commissioner Exposes Dangerous Medical Operations
The Rivers State Government has taken decisive action against six private hospitals, including one operated by a foreign national, for operating without the necessary authorizations and engaging in unethical medical practices. This announcement was made by the State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Adaeze Oreh, during a media briefing held in Port Harcourt.
- Unqualified Personnel Endanger Patient Safety
Dr. Oreh revealed that these facilities were employing unqualified personnel, posing significant risks to patient safety. She highlighted a troubling trend where unprofessional practices are often conducted in facilities located outside of Port Harcourt, allowing operators to evade scrutiny while performing surgeries without appropriate staff, equipment, or oversight.
- List of Sealed Facilities
The following hospitals have been sealed as part of this crackdown:
– **Parley Hospital and Maternity** (Ogale)
– **Success Maternity** (Aleto)
– **Noble Life Maternity and Computer Test** (Aleto, Eleme LGA)
– **Futurist Medical Centre** (Omagwa, Ikwerre LGA)
– **Godbless Hospital** (Kom-kom, Oyigbo LGA)
– **ASHA Specialist Hospital** (La Quinta Street, Afam, Oyigbo LGA)
Dr. Oreh stressed that many of these facilities are relocating away from the main city to avoid detection by authorities.
- Warning to Medical Professionals
The commissioner issued a stern warning to medical practitioners and pharmacies against unethical collaborations with unqualified individuals. She emphasized that such partnerships can lead to severe consequences, including patient fatalities.
“We caution medical doctors and other health workers against colluding with quacks and facilities operated by unqualified practitioners. Engaging in these unethical practices is unacceptable,” Dr. Oreh stated.
- Call to Action for Unregistered Facilities
Dr. Oreh urged all unregistered healthcare facilities to approach the Rivers State Ministry of Health to understand the registration criteria and requirements. She reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to a zero-tolerance policy towards unregistered and unethical medical practices.
- Revitalizing Health Services in Rivers State
In a positive development, Dr. Oreh announced the upcoming launch of the Rivers State Contributory Health Programme, approved by Governor Siminalayi Fubara for January 2024. She encouraged residents to enroll in this program to benefit from enhanced healthcare services in the public sector.
The Rivers State Government remains vigilant in its efforts to ensure safe and ethical healthcare practices for all citizens, aiming to protect patient welfare and uphold medical standards.
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