The Enugu State government has banned any medical outreach by an individual or group of individuals not approved by the government.

The Commissioner for Health, Ikechukwu Obi, announced the ban in a statement issued on Saturday in Enugu.

Mr Obi said individuals and organisations intending to engage in medical services, including other health outreaches, should apply and obtain a permit from the ministry.

“The Enugu State Ministry of Health has noticed with dismay that some organisations offer medical and health outreach services in the state without the approval of the ministry,” said Mr Ikechukwu.

He added, “Henceforth, any form of medical outreach and other health services either by public or private health institutions in the state must get approval from the State Ministry of Health.”

The commissioner said the ban was in line with Governor Peter Mbah’s effort to ensure the safety and well-being of the state’s people.

According to him, investigations reveal that some products used for medical outreaches either expire or are nearing their expiration date.

He said that had led to health complications for beneficiaries of such outreaches.

Mr Obi also said the ministry was concerned about the qualifications of practitioners engaged for the job.

“Any medical outreach in the state must be conducted by qualified professionals who can diagnose and prescribe the right treatments.

“This is necessary to ensure that the medical services are carried out by certified professionals, using appropriate medical equipment and products, while following standard operating procedure,” he said.

While commending eminent individuals and organisations for the laudable initiative of medical outreaches, Mr Obi said the government would continue to partner with them for the state’s progress.

He, however, said that the government would not compromise the health and safety of the people on the altar of unregulated medical practices, warning of severe consequences for non-compliance.

(NAN)