HPAZ Shuts Down 49 Illegal Health Facilities

By Southerton Business Times Reporter, Harare

The Health Professions Authority of Zimbabwe (HPAZ) has shut down 49 illegal health facilities so far this year, including drug and substance abuse rehabilitation centres, following inspections and reports from members of the public.

In a public notice, HPAZ secretary-general Clotilda Chimbwanda said the closures targeted institutions operating without proper registration, qualified personnel or suitable premises, raising concerns about patient safety and the quality of care provided. Chimbwanda warned that seeking treatment at unregistered facilities could expose patients to substandard services, harmful practices and abuse, particularly in settings offering medical treatment and rehabilitation services.

“Seeking treatment at unregistered health facilities poses severe risks to patients, including substandard care, exposure to unproven or harmful treatments, patient abuse and neglect, as well as a complete lack of legal recourse in cases of malpractice or harm,” she said. She added that some illegal facilities operated outside Zimbabwe's regulatory framework and failed to follow established medical protocols.

The authority urged patients, relatives and caregivers to verify a facility's registration before committing to medical treatment or rehabilitation programmes. According to HPAZ, members of the public should check for a valid certificate of institutional registration issued by the authority, a current practising certificate from the relevant professional council and any other applicable certificates.

The warning is particularly relevant to families seeking assistance for loved ones affected by drug and substance abuse, who may be vulnerable when searching for treatment and rehabilitation services. HPAZ urged anyone who suspects that a health facility is operating illegally to report it to the nearest police station or contact the authority directly.

The authority's warning highlights the importance of checking the regulatory status of health institutions before seeking treatment, as registration and professional credentials help establish whether providers meet the applicable requirements. Members of the public are encouraged to seek services from appropriately registered facilities and qualified professionals to reduce the risk of unsafe or unregulated treatment.

Illegal health facilities in Zimbabwe