The Federal Government of Nigeria has tasked the Medical Laboratory Science Council of Nigeria (MLSCN) with intensifying efforts to combat quackery and misconduct in the medical laboratory profession. The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Salako, issued this charge during a recent visit to the MLSCN headquarters in Abuja, urging the Council to enforce strict regulations that ensure only certified and qualified individuals are allowed to practice in the country.
Dr. Salako emphasized that the MLSCN, as the regulatory body for medical laboratory professionals, has the authority and legal backing to sanction unqualified practitioners and employers who engage quacks. He stressed the importance of holding erring professionals accountable by ensuring they face swift penalties, which would serve as a deterrent to others. The Minister specifically called on the MLSCN to ensure that only registered and certified medical laboratory professionals are permitted to operate in Nigeria, as part of their responsibility to uphold the integrity of the profession.
Addressing the importance of digitalization in the profession, Dr. Salako commended the MLSCN for embarking on a digital transformation of its operations. He noted that digital tools would enable the Council to maintain an updated database of registered professionals, track their activities more efficiently, and identify potential cases of malpractice or unqualified practitioners. He also urged the MLSCN to fully embrace digitalization to streamline the regulation process and enhance its enforcement capabilities.
“The law is behind you,” Dr. Salako affirmed, urging the MLSCN to take more action in ensuring that only qualified professionals are employed in medical facilities across Nigeria. He further stressed that the responsibility of regulating the practice lies squarely on the shoulders of the Council. “If you are talking about not having qualified people being employed by medical facilities, it’s still your lapses because it is your responsibility to ensure that anybody who is not qualified does not practice in Nigeria,” he added.
In his remarks, Dr. Salako highlighted the critical role of medical laboratory science in healthcare delivery. He pointed out that accurate laboratory test results are essential for proper diagnosis and treatment, providing clinicians with confidence in their medical decisions. He also reflected on the dangers of incorrect diagnoses, which could lead to fatalities, disabilities, or even loss of life. This, he explained, is why the MLSCN’s role in maintaining high standards and eliminating quackery is crucial.
The Minister’s charge serves as a reminder of the significant responsibility that the MLSCN holds in safeguarding public health by ensuring only qualified professionals are involved in medical laboratory practices. The Federal Government’s commitment to supporting the MLSCN’s efforts in maintaining professional integrity and combating quackery is a step toward improving the quality of healthcare in Nigeria.
