The Clinical Department has shut down several drug stores across Liberia for engaging in clinical procedures beyond their scope of licensure.
During a late-night operation, a team led by the Medical and Research Director of the Liberia Medical and Dental Council (LMDC), Joseph Colmah, closed The Lord Doing Drug Store in Paynesville.
The drug store was found providing clinical services without meeting the necessary requirements, a violation of the medical procedures policy.
According to Mr. Colmah, drug stores are required to meet specific standards, including appropriate structures, qualified staffing, equipment, and medications, to offer clinical services.
Since The Lord Doing Drug Store failed to meet these criteria, its operations were terminated, and the case was referred to the Pharmacy Board.
Mr. Colmah further disclosed that the LMDC has received intelligence about similar violations by drug stores across the country.
Investigations are underway, and the Council has begun shutting down those operating beyond their licensure.
He also urged citizens to report drug stores providing unauthorized clinical services and advised against seeking treatment from such facilities, as they pose serious health risks.
This incident follows a similar crackdown in Bong County last month, where the Technical Working Group conducted a four-day monitoring mission to ensure the quality of healthcare delivery services.
According to Mr. Alex Doya, Regional Administrator of the LMDC, the inspection led to the closure of over 15 drug stores that were providing clinical services without meeting the requirements to be qualified for clinical services.
Additionally, several clinics were issued warning letters to address facility deficiencies.
The Bong County Technical Working Group comprised regulators from the LMDC Regional Office, the Liberia Medicine and Health Product Regulatory Authority (LMHRA), the Bong County Health Team (BCHT), and the Liberia Pharmacy Board (LPB).
The inspection aimed to identify irregularities and enforce corrective measures among healthcare providers. Doya expressed gratitude to the LMDC central office for supporting the initiative.
He also announced plans for the second phase of inspections in Bong County, pending vehicle maintenance by the LMHRA.
The Chairperson of LMDC, Benetta Collins-Andrews, thanked all partners for their collaboration during the first phase of the inspection. She emphasized the importance of teamwork in ensuring quality healthcare services for Liberians.