Health Centres Shut Down Due to Violations

 Several health facilities have been closed down in Luanshya, Kitwe and Ndola by the Health Professions Council of Zambia, who cited various violations contrary to the laws of Zambia.

The closures came following ongoing inspections by the HPCZ on the Copperbelt province.

One clinic was discovered to be stocking and dispensing expired drugs and medical supplies, another had poor storage and a lack of clinical supervision. Another was found to have an unlicensed ambulance.

Most concerning of all Sinozam Hospital had been offering unaccredited Anti-retro Viral Treatment services.

Dr. Aaron Mujajati, the Council Registrar said all the five facilities have been closed pursuant to section 50 (1) (a) of the Health Professions Act number 24 of 2009 of the Laws of Zambia which provides that the Council may order closure of a health facility where- “the health facility is violating licence requirements in a manner that presents danger of imminent harm to patients.

He said the health facilities will be charged accordingly for breaching the Health Professions Act and will only be allowed to reopen after the Council is satisfied that corrective measures have been taken to address the violations identified.