daniel chigunwe
The Health Professions Authority of Zimbabwe (HPA) on Tuesday expressed concerns over services offered by some beauty and wellness operators over which they do not have the requisite competencies.
In a statement, the HPA cited services such as intravenous drips, infusions and injectables as among widely offered treatments, but for which most beauty and wellness operators in the country had no scope to give, and was therefore harmful to the public.
It said it had teamed up with police to clamp down on such operators.
“Intravenous drips and injectables are being administered by non-medical professionals which poses a serious threat in the health sector. The Health Professions Act (Chapter 27:19) section 126 prohibits non-medical personnel from performing any act especially pertaining to a registered profession,” HPA said.
It implored the public to seek medical advice and treatment from registered health professionals and institutions.
Such registered health professionals and institutions, the HPA said, are identifiable by possession of a valid practicing certificate from the practitioner’s respective Council as well as an HPA license.
“Currently, in conjunction with the police, HPA is closing facilities where non-medical personnel are carrying out procedures meant to be done by registered medical professionals while the responsible individuals are facing the wrath of the law,” the HPA said. – New Ziana
Bongani Ndlovu