Online Reporter
Robin Muchetu [email protected]
FOLLOWING the proliferation of cosmetic surgery clinics in Zimbabwe, health care regulators have raised red flags over their operations saying it is illegal to operate the facilities and called on locals to use registered facilities and doctors.
The Health Professions Authority (HPA) Zimbabwe, the apex regulatory body for the healthcare sector, has issued a critical warning to the public regarding the dangerous and unauthorised use of these facilities that are performing specialised medical and cosmetic procedures.
“It has come to our attention that several beauty salons, wellness spas and unregistered boutiques are offering services such as teeth whitening, intravenous vitamin infusions, chemical skin peels, and other invasive cosmetic treatments without the mandatory medical licenses or qualified personnel,” said Mrs Clotilda Chimbwanda the Secretary General for HPA.
She said the Health Professions Act [Chapter 27:19] serves as the primary legislation to safeguard the Zimbabwean public and highlighted specific sections of the Act that prohibit these unauthorized activities.
“Section 121 explicitly states that no person shall practice as a health practitioner or perform any act specially pertaining to a health profession unless they are registered under the Act. Performing medical acts like injections or chemical treatments in an environment other than a health facility is a direct violation of this law. Furthermore, Section 99 mandates that no person shall operate or carry on a health institution unless it is registered with the HPA. Any unregistered facility offering medical-grade cosmetic procedures is therefore illegal. Additionally, Section 126 makes it a criminal offense for any individual to represent themselves as a registered professional or to perform duties reserved for licensed practitioners,” she highlighted.
The HPA serves as the shield between the public and sub-standard care. By enforcing the Health Professions Act, the Authority ensures that facilities meet minimum standards for hygiene, equipment, and safety.
This oversight ensures that only qualified and accountable professionals are authorized to perform medical acts and provides the public with a legal path for redress if they receive harmful treatment. Adherence to these regulatory frameworks is essential for patient safety, professional protection, and the overall quality of health delivery in Zimbabwe.
“Before undergoing any procedure, you must check for the HPA Registration Certificate, which must be prominently displayed in the reception area. You should also verify the practitioner’s license by asking to see a current Practicing Certificate from the relevant Council,” said Mrs Chimbwanda.
