LMDC To Sanction JAHMALE Medical Solutions For Hiring Unlicensed Imaging, Laboratory Technicians  

By K. Ericson Sayee

The Liberia Medical and Dental Council (LMDC) has uncovered that four (4) Ghanaians and five (5) Liberians are illegally hired in the Imaging department of the JAHMALE Medical Solutions, terming it as gross violation under the Liberia medical jurisdiction.

During the inspection on Wednesday, September 4, 2024, led by the Executive Director of the LMDC, Dr. Benneta Collins-Andrews disclosed that the situation is alarming, announcing that the Jahmale Medical Solutions will be sanctioned for hiring unqualified professionals.

"This is a clear breach of the law. Medical facilities must operate within the legal framework to ensure the safety and well-being of patients. Jahmale Medical Solutions' actions are not only illegal but also pose significant risks to public health,” Dr. Andrews said following inspection on the facility.

She added that the medical professionals who are involved with the malpractice will be sanctioned individually for practicing medicine illegally, saying that these sanctions range from huge fines to prosecution as mandated by the Act of the National Legislature, creating the Liberia Medical and Dental Council.

The head of LMDC also highlighted the challenges the LMDC faces in enforcing medical regulations across the country, pointing out that the Council lacks sufficient resources, disclosing that currently the LMDC does not have any functional vehicle to conduct regular inspections and monitoring.

"We are urgently calling for budgetary support from the government. If violations like these can happen in a major facility right here in Monrovia, one can only imagine the potential risks in more isolated regions, especially in facilities run by concession companies in rural areas" the LMDC head noted.

In order to enhance its regulatory and inspectorate functions, the LMDC Chairperson appealed to both government and international partners to provide logistical support, including vehicle and training programs, to enhance the Council’s capacity to regulate medical practices effectively across the country.

Despite the discovery of these malpractices, Dr. Andrews averred that the institution would launch a detailed investigation into Jahmale Medical Solutions, pledging that the LMDC will continue its efforts to ensure all medical facilities in Liberia comply with the country's stringent medical standards in the interest of the people.

The unlicensed professionals identified include Radiographers Theresa Akoto Bamford, Samuel Lartey, Stephen G. Akpozah, and Richard Asamoah from Ghana.

Additionally, Liberian Radiographers Adrian S. Jackson, Jackson K. Mulbah, Abraham B. Merriam, while two other Liberians identified as Lovetta W. Flomo and Decontee Y. Farley-Korgboi, were found practicing as Diagnostic Medical Sonographers without license.