Health rights activist George Jobe has applauded government for directing that requirement for police report before accessing medical assistance with history of assault, accident or general injuries is not mandatory.

According to a circular issued to all hospital directors by Secretary for Health Dr Charles Mwansambo, the requirement is not demanded by law.
Reads the statement in part: “In a bid to preserve life and human dignity, every sick or injured person has right to access medical assistance or health care.

In particular, the Government of Malawi is duly bound to promote the welfare of the people of Malawi by implementing policies and legislation that aim at providing adequate health care, amongst others.”

Commenting on the communication, Jobe said the directive will improve sanity in the country’s health facilities.

“We commend the Ministry for coming up with this secular because the misunderstanding of the requirement for a police report has led to disabilities of people because of delayed treatment at health facilities and we believe some might have also lost lives.

This should bring sanity in our facilities so that when one is presented at the facility, either injured or sick arising from assault or accident must be assisted to save the life first,” Jobe said.

He however asked government to carry out massive awareness such that Malawians are well informed about the development.

He said: “Will be important for the ministry to also publicise this circular and encourage the citizens to be reporting in case the go to a health facility and have not been duly treated in times of need.”