The Anambra State Ministry of Health on Monday sealed an unregistered health facility, Vick-Benedict’s Home, located at Ifitedunu in Dunukofia Local Government Area of the state.
The state government also shut down several facilities run by some unauthorised Traditional Birth Attendants during the enforcement exercise.
The Commissioner for Health, Dr Afam Obidike, made this known during the operation carried out in the area alongside the Director of Medical Services, Dr Ugochukwu Chukwulobelu.
Obidike explained that the affected centres were operating without the mandatory registration and approval of the ministry, in violation of existing healthcare laws and regulations.
He added that the action was part of the government’s continued efforts to clamp down on illegal medical practices and improve healthcare delivery standards for residents.
“We have ordered the immediate sealing of Vick-Benedict’s Home and directed the operators to report at the Department of Medical Services at the Secretariat, Awka, for further clarification and regulatory action.
“We also inspected and shut down facilities operated by some TBA’s, who are allegedly practicing healthcare services without authorisation from the ministry,” Obidike said.
He further reiterated Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s resolve to sanitise the health sector and ensure that only duly registered and regulated health facilities are allowed to operate in the state.
The commissioner warned operators of unregistered hospitals, maternity homes, rehabilitation centres, and TBA facilities to comply with government regulations or risk closure and possible prosecution.
He also advised residents to patronise only accredited and approved health facilities when seeking medical care.
Obidike assured that the government remains committed to safeguarding lives through strict enforcement of healthcare standards, adding that the ministry will continue surveillance across the state to ensure full compliance with relevant laws guiding medical practice.
