Staff Reporter
The Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) and the Health Professions Authority (HPA) have issued a stern warning against the unauthorized use of questionable magnetic resonance machines and the illegal sale of medicines in Zimbabwe.
This follows reports of unlicensed operators offering “full body scans” using questionable magnetic resonance technology, followed by the prescription and sale of both conventional and complementary medicines, often for chronic conditions.
In a press statement released yesterday, Mr. Richard Rukwata, Director General of MCAZ, raised concern about the growing use of these dubious machines by unqualified personnel, stressing the serious risks posed to public health.
“The unauthorized use of these so-called magnetic resonance machines is not only illegal but poses a grave danger to individuals who are misdiagnosed and mistreated,” said Mr. Rukwata.
He noted that these actions violate several laws, including the Health Professions Act and the Medicines and Allied Substances Control Act.
“Only qualified and licensed professionals are permitted to diagnose, treat, and prescribe medicines. The public should remain vigilant and only seek services from registered healthcare providers.
“Unauthorized operators are committing an offense under the Health Professions Act, which clearly stipulates that anyone practicing or claiming to be a health professional without being registered is liable for prosecution. Similarly, the sale of medicines by unlicensed individuals or from unlicensed premises is illegal, as outlined in the Medicines and Allied Substances Control Act,” he added.
Dr. Agnes Mahomva, Public Health Advisor to the Office of the President and Cabinet, applauded the MCAZ and HPA for taking action to protect the public.
“Public health is a priority, and these unlicensed practices threaten the safety and well-being of Zimbabweans. It is encouraging to see the authorities taking a firm stand to safeguard people from potential harm,” she said
Meanwhile, the illegal use of unregistered medical equipment, combined with the sale of unregulated medicines, creates a significant risk of misdiagnosis and mistreatment.
In response, MCAZ and HPA, in collaboration with the Zimbabwe Republic Police, will be launching investigations and confiscating unauthorized machines and medicines.
The authorities urge the public to seek medical care only from registered healthcare professionals and institutions. Practitioners should possess a valid practicing certificate, and both individuals and premises selling medicines must have licenses issued by the MCAZ.
