The Kano State Government has banned the administration of intravenous (IV) fluids and blood transfusions at patent medicine stores across the state.
The Acting Executive Secretary of the Kano State Private Health Institutions Management Agency (PHIMA), Khadijah Hussein-Sa’id, announced the directive during a sensitisation workshop for proprietors and medical directors of private health facilities in Kano.
Hussein-Sa’id said patent medicine stores were legally classified as non-clinical retail outlets and were not authorised to perform invasive medical procedures, administer IV fluids or conduct blood transfusions.
She said the directive was aimed at protecting residents from unsafe and illegal medical practices and strengthening the regulation of private health facilities in the state.
“Any patent medicine store or unauthorised facility found administering IV fluids or conducting blood transfusions will face immediate closure and other sanctions in accordance with relevant laws and regulations,” she warned.
The acting executive secretary said blood transfusions and IV fluid therapy must only be administered in accredited health facilities under the supervision of qualified medical professionals.
She said the measure was in line with the state government’s commitment to protecting the health and lives of residents.
Hussein-Sa’id urged members of the public to report patent medicine stores and other unauthorised facilities engaging in prohibited practices.
She said complaints could be submitted directly to the PHIMA office at Magaji Rumfa, with supporting evidence such as photographs, receipts or other proof of the services provided.
Hussein-Sa’id added that PHIMA would continue to strengthen the regulation of private health institutions and take decisive action against unsafe, illegal and unhygienic medical practices.
She urged operators of private health facilities to comply with the directive and adhere to approved standards to improve healthcare delivery across the state.
