The Rivers State Government has taken decisive action by sealing six private hospitals, including one owned by a foreigner, due to their unauthorized operations and unprofessional conduct. Health Commissioner Dr. Adaeze Oreh announced these measures during a media briefing in Port Harcourt, highlighting that these facilities employed unqualified staff.

Dr. Oreh revealed that many unethical practitioners are relocating their operations outside of Port Harcourt, the state capital, to evade detection. These facilities often conduct surgeries without the necessary personnel, equipment, and supervision, putting unsuspecting patients at significant risk.

The hospitals that were shut down include ‘Parley Hospital and Maternity,’ ‘Success Maternity,’ and ‘Noble Life Maternity and Computer Test’ in the Eleme Local Government Area. Additionally, ‘Futurist Medical Centre’ in Omagwa, Ikwerre LGA, ‘Godbless Hospital’ in Kom-kom, and ‘ASHA Specialist Hospital’ on La Quinta Street in Afam, Oyigbo LGA, were also affected.

Dr. Oreh noted a troubling trend where many of these unlicensed facilities are moving out of urban areas to avoid scrutiny from authorities.

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The Commissioner issued a stern warning to medical professionals and pharmacies, cautioning them against unethical collaborations with unqualified practitioners. She stressed that such partnerships could lead to tragic outcomes, including patient deaths.

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“We also warn medical doctors and other health workers who collaborate, train, and collude with quacks and facilities run by unqualified practitioners against crossing the lines of ethical medical practice,” Oreh stated.

She also directed pharmacies and chemist shops to cease illegal activities, such as conducting consultations and administering intravenous medications without proper authorization, or face serious consequences.

Dr. Oreh encouraged all unregistered facilities to contact the Rivers State Ministry of Health to learn about the requirements for registration. She reiterated the state government’s commitment to a zero-tolerance policy regarding unlicensed practitioners and facilities.

Additionally, she reminded the public about the active Rivers State Contributory Health Programme, which was launched in January 2024 with the approval of Governor Siminalayi Fubara. Citizens are urged to enroll to take advantage of the enhanced health services now available in the public sector.