The Akwa Ibom State Government has announced plans to commence the re-registration of all private hospitals operating in the state as part of its comprehensive reforms in the health sector. The initiative aims to verify the eligibility of these facilities and confirm the qualifications of their medical personnel.
Dr. Ekem John, the State Commissioner for Health, disclosed this during the ARISE Health Sector Town Hall Meeting held in Uyo over the weekend. According to him, Governor Pastor Umo Eno has directed the ministry to enforce strict regulations to eliminate illegalities that threaten public health in the state.
"Today in Akwa Ibom, there is so much medical quackery that even tailors now pass themselves off as medical doctors," Dr. John stated. "The governor has directed that the ministry should come up with a revised guideline and all private hospitals in Akwa Ibom must be re-registered. Immediately we publish the guideline, we will give everybody a time span."
Joint Task Force to Combat Health Sector Illegalities
The commissioner revealed that joint task force teams have been inaugurated with multiple mandates: to combat fake and counterfeit drugs, monitor private health facilities, and clamp down on quacks operating in the sector. Dr. John emphasized that any health facilities employing unqualified workers would be shut down, as the task force has been empowered to identify and take action against such establishments.
This decisive action is aimed at ensuring healthcare services are delivered exclusively by trained professionals, thereby safeguarding the health and well-being of Akwa Ibom residents. The commissioner assured that these measures would restore citizens' confidence in the state's health system while ensuring strict adherence to ethical standards in both private and public facilities.
New Oxygen Plants Coming Soon
In addition to the re-registration initiative, Dr. John announced that the state will launch two new oxygen plants next month. These facilities will be located at the General Hospital, Ukpum Abak, and Emmanuel General Hospital, Eket, replacing the current use of industrial oxygen plants.
The commissioner also commended Governor Eno for approving the town hall meeting, which allowed major stakeholders in the health sector to contribute to the proposed Ibom International Hospital project.
These reforms represent a significant step in Akwa Ibom's efforts to strengthen its healthcare infrastructure and ensure quality medical services for its citizens.
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