By; BAYO AKAMO, Ibadan
Oyo State Government has sealed five private health facilities in Ibadan over an alleged quackery as part of measures towards protecting the health and well-being of residents.
Speaking with journalists, the state Director for Secondary Healthcare and Training, Dr. Wale Falana said the action became necessary after an extensive monitoring and evaluation of hospital facilities was carried out within the state.
Dr Falana said the healthcare facilities were sealed for non-compliance with regulatory standards and were also found guilty of employing unqualified and unlicensed doctors, commonly referred to as quack doctors.
” This administration underscores its commitment to ensuring that health care services in the Oyo State adhere to the highest standards of quality and professionalism”, he said.
Dr Falana added, ” The government of the day, distinguished health as one of the cardinal programmes, consequently, Engr. Seyi Makinde takes the health of the people as essential, which is the reason behind the Omititun free health mission held quarterly throughout the state.”
“We will not tolerate any compromise in medical standards that could put lives at risk. Our action in closing these hospitals demonstrates our commitment to maintaining quality healthcare delivery within our state.”
He stressed further ” the inspection revealed alarming evidence of malpractice, misdiagnoses and inappropriate treatments being administered to unsuspected patients”.
” Also, some hospitals were staffed with unqualified personnel who were practicing medicine without the required qualifications and license”.
He maintained that the five health care facilities sealed were found to be lacking in terms of equipment, personnel, and compliance with standard medical regulations.’
Expressing concern and warning hospitals not to compromise on the quality of healthcare offered to patients, Dr Falana stressed that the facilities will remain closed until they meet the requirements and standards set by the regulatory bodies.
Dr Falana added further that the state government has urged citizens to be more cautious when seeking medical attention and reminded them to verify the qualifications and licenses of healthcare providers they visit for treatment, encouraging citizens to report any suspected cases of quack doctors or substandard medical practices to the Ministry of Health.
“This will enable the government to take swift action and ensure that the healthcare system in Oyo State remains trustworthy, reliable, and patient-centric.”
