RAYMOND OZOJI reports
Anambra state commissioner for health, Dr. Ben Afam Obidike, has made it categorically clear that only government accredited health facilities will operate in the state.
Obidike said that the measure was to eliminate quackery; ensure that unlicensed health facilities do not operate in the state and that above all, to ensure that the people have access to quality and comprehensive healthcare services.
The commissioner who stated this during the statewide facility accreditation exercise, noted that the newly introduced Health Facility Accreditation Sticker will help residents identify genuine, government-approved health facilities and avoid unlicensed operators across the state.
Obidike said that the initiative was a major step by the Ministry of Health to improve transparency, patient safety and quality healthcare delivery, pointing out that all private hospitals, maternity homes, medical laboratories, dental clinics and other health facilities were required to renew their licences and accreditation every year.
The Commissioner explained that only health facilities that meet the Ministry's required standards are issued the official accreditation sticker, which must be displayed where patients and visitors can easily see it.
According to him, the sticker carries a unique QR code that allows members of the public to verify the accreditation status of any health facility using their smartphones. It also contains the Ministry's website and contact details for reporting complaints and suspected quack health facilities.
Dr Obidike said the initiative would help eliminate quackery and ensure that only qualified and licensed health facilities provide medical services in the state. He reaffirmed Governor Chukwuma Soludo's commitment to building a healthcare system based on quality, professionalism and accountability.
Also speaking, the Director of Medical Services, Anambra State Ministry of Health, Dr Ugochukwu Chukwulobelu, said the accreditation exercise is aimed at strengthening healthcare regulation and ensuring that all health facilities comply with professional and legal standards before receiving approval to operate.
Dr Chukwulobelu explained that inspection teams assess health facilities based on infrastructure, equipment, staffing, infection prevention and control, waste management, emergency preparedness and proper record keeping. He added that the Ministry would continue regular monitoring to ensure accredited facilities maintain the required standards.
The Director of Awka Medical Centre, Dr Eric Anazodo, expressed satisfaction after the hospital received its renewed operational licence for 2026. He said the medical centre renews its licence every year without waiting for reminders, adding that compliance with government regulations is essential for quality healthcare delivery.
Dr Anazodo urged other health facility owners to renew their licences promptly and commended Governor Soludo, Commissioner Obidike and Dr Chukwulobelu for their efforts in improving healthcare regulation and reforming the health sector in Anambra State.
The accreditation team also visited Rock Foundation Hospital, Awka, where officials presented and affixed the official Health Facility Accreditation Sticker after the hospital successfully renewed its operational licence for 2026, confirming that it had met all regulatory requirements to continue providing healthcare services in the state.
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