Anambra Govt Prohibits Medical Missions, Outreaches Without Ministry Approval
By Chris Chikelue
Anambra State Government has reminded Individuals and Corporate bodies in the state that conducting medical missions or outreaches without prior Ministry of Health approval is prohibited.
This was contained in a circular from the State Ministry of Health made public on Thursday, June 5 and signed by the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike.
The circular titled, 'Attention: General Public, Communities, NGOs Faith-Based Organizations, Public and Private Health Facility Owners among other stipulations stated:
"The Ministry of Health under the visionary leadership of His Excellency, Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo, CFR, and the Honourable Commissioner for Health, Dr. Obidike Afam Ben reminds all stakeholders that conducting medical missions or outreaches without prior Ministry approval is prohibited.
"This measure ensures patient safety, 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 the circular outlined that 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.
"Preventing public health risks: Avoids disease outbreaks and integrates efforts into state health strategies.
"Strengthening collaboration: Promotes synergy between stakeholders and the Ministry for impactful healthcare delivery."
While showing steps to follow to obtain this approval, the government circular pointed that an application addressed to the Honourable Commissioner for Health must be submitted to the ministry.
The application must provide outreach details, 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.
According to the circular, the Ministry of Health is in support of all efforts and provides guidance to ensure successful, safe and impactful medical missions.
The contact information according to the circular is the Headquarters of the Health Ministry at the Jerome Udoji Secretariat, Awka.
Lines to call are- for emergency: 08057655442; for general complaints: 09135169905; and for anonymous reports 07013197263.
* Chikelue is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *
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