The Abia State Government has warned that it would sanction any doctor, discovered to be diverting patients, from public hospitals to private clinics.
The Administrator of the Abia State Eye Health Management Bureau, Dr Betty Emeka-Obasi gave the warning at the maiden meeting of Optometrists in Abia State civil service.
Dr Emeka-Obasi noted that it has become a big offense for any Optometrist working in government-owned medical institutions to divert patients to their private clinics, stating that the administration of Governor Alex Otti established the Abia State Eye Health Management Bureau to achieve standardized and accessible eye-care services for every citizen across the State.
She charged the Optometrists and other medical personnel working in the State civil service to demonstrate commitment and professionalism by reporting to work daily and avoiding absenteeism.
On her part, the Director of Administration, Abia State Ministry of Health, Mrs. Okoroafor Ngozi Uche expressed disappointment over reports of absenteeism and early departures among workers.
Mrs Uche called on the doctors to be at work from Monday to Friday, as well as remain on duty until the closing hours.
