Enugu Intensifies Fight Against Quackery In Health Services

The Enugu State Government said it has intensified fight against quackery across all health professions, particularly in the laboratory practice within the state.

The Commissioner for Health, Prof George Ugwu, stated this on Friday while receiving the national president of Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists of Nigeria (AMLSN), Dr Casimir Ifeanyi, on a courtesy visit to his office in Enugu.

Ugwu decried the growing trend of unprofessional practices and establishments where laboratory services are combined with pharmacies, patient treatment areas, provision stores, and other unauthorised activities.

According to him, such practices are unacceptable and dangerous to public health.

He reaffirmed the government’s resolve to eliminate quackery especially in laboratory practices and operations through sustained monitoring, regulation and enforcement.

The commissioner also commended the association for its dedication to promoting excellence in medical laboratory science and public health advocacy.

He assured the team of the ministry’s willingness to collaborate with professional bodies whose activities align with the government’s vision of delivering accessible, quality, and people-centred healthcare services across the state.

Ugwu stressed the remarkable strides recorded under the administration of Gov. Peter Mbah in transforming the health sector, including investments in healthcare infrastructure, workforce development, primary healthcare revitalisation and improved service delivery.

He urged the association to remain steadfast in upholding professionalism and ethical standards, emphasising that stronger partnerships between government and healthcare professionals remained essential in building a healthier Enugu State.

Earlier, Ifeanyi, who made the visit with some members of his national executive and Enugu State Chapter of AMLSN, briefed the commissioner on the association’s forthcoming AMLSN Annual Public Health Lecture.

He solicited the state government’s goodwill, support and participation in the event, which would be held in Enugu.

“The annual lecture is aimed at advancing quality healthcare delivery, promoting public health awareness, and fostering stronger collaboration among healthcare professionals and government institutions,” he said.

He noted that the association remained committed to improving professional standards and supporting initiatives that would enhance healthcare outcomes for residents of Enugu State and Nigeria at large.