By Peter Agengre
The Health Facilities Regulatory Agency (HeFRA) has commenced investigations into a media report alleging that some nurses in the Upper East Region are offering medical treatment to patients in their homes without authorisation.
The investigation follows a GBCNews report, which raised concerns about the growing practice of unlicensed home-based medical care, a situation HeFRA says poses serious risks to public health and safety.
During a visit to Ayamfooya Hospital and some engagements in the Nabdam District, HeFRA strongly condemned the actions of the nurses involved, describing the practice as illegal and a clear violation of Ghana’s health regulatory framework. The agency emphasized that no individual or group is permitted to operate a health service or provide clinical care outside an approved and licensed facility.
According to HeFRA, preliminary checks suggest that the alleged services were being carried out without the necessary certification, supervision, or adherence to standard treatment protocols. The agency warned that such activities could expose patients to misdiagnosis, unsafe treatment, and preventable complications.
HeFRA’s regional team, led by Josbert Zure, noted that the ongoing investigations will identify those involved and determine the appropriate sanctions, which may include warning, closure of illegal operations, and referral to professional regulatory bodies for further disciplinary action.
The agency has also called on the public to be vigilant and to seek medical care only from licensed health facilities. Residents are encouraged to report suspected illegal health practices to HeFRA or other relevant authorities.
HeFRA reiterated its commitment to ensuring quality, safe, and regulated healthcare delivery across the country, assuring the public that it will take decisive action after probing the illegality in other districts to protect lives and uphold professional standards.
