Chronicle Editor
Nqobile Tshili,
GOVERNMENT has warned that the country is recording an increase in bogus medical practitioners whose lack of professional credentials poses a serious threat to public health and safety.
Recently it was revealed that 44 fake doctors and tutors have been arrested at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals since last year.
In a statement on Monday, the Health Professions Authority Zimbabwe (HPAZ), a statutory body whose mandate is to protect public health, warned of the prevalence of fake medical practitioners threatening public health.
“The rise of individuals posing as qualified medical professionals, despite lacking the necessary credentials and expertise, poses serious threats to public health and safety. As part of its mandate, the Authority seeks to uphold and promote high standards for the healthcare delivery system in Zimbabwe through the coordination of the eight health professions councils and health care institutions in an ethical, efficient and professional manner,” read the statement.
“Regardless of their motivations, the presence of bogus medical practitioners represents a grave threat to public health and undermines the integrity of the Zimbabwean healthcare system. The risks associated with seeking medical treatment from bogus practitioners are manifold and can have devastating consequences for patients. Without the proper training and knowledge, these individuals may misdiagnose conditions, prescribe inappropriate medications, or perform procedures that pose serious risks to the health and well-being of their patients.”
It said because there is a lack of accountability and oversight patients may have no recourse in the event of malpractice or harm caused by the actions of bogus practitioners.
“In order to combat the proliferation of bogus practitioners and protect the public from harm, concerted efforts are being made at institutional and regulatory levels. Healthcare regulatory bodies and law enforcement agencies are investigating and prosecuting individuals engaged in fraudulent medical practices,” read the statement.
“By enforcing effective licensing requirements, conducting inspections, and implementing robust oversight mechanisms, regulatory authorities aim to mitigate the risks posed by bogus practitioners and deter others from engaging in similar deceptive practices.”
@nqotshili
Bongani Ndlovu
Online Reporter