By Sunny A. David, Awka

The Healthcare Equipment and Allied Products Providers Association of Nigeria (HEPAN) launched its Onitsha zone in Awka, Anambra State, marking a significant step towards improving healthcare equipment standards in the region.

The inauguration underscored the crucial role of quality equipment in delivering effective clinical services.

HEPAN National President, Dr. Ifeanyi Nwankwo, emphasized the need for honesty, knowledge, and organization among providers to ensure patient safety.

He highlighted the association’s goals: fostering collaboration between providers and regulatory agencies, combating the import of substandard equipment, and protecting Nigerian businesses from unfair competition.

Dr. Nwankwo also acknowledged challenges facing HEPAN, including misconceptions about its objectives, high product registration costs, conflicting regulations, government debt, and a lack of protection for indigenous companies.

Keynote speaker Dr. Joe Akabuike, Chief Medical Director of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital (COOUTH), focused on diagnostic errors stemming from faulty medical devices.

He highlighted human factors, systemic issues, and deficient equipment as contributing factors and stressed the importance of strong regulations.

The event culminated in the inauguration of a six-member interim management team for the Onitsha zone (comprising Anambra, Enugu, and Ebonyi States), led by Chief Damian Onyekachi and the team pledged to uphold standards and regulations.

Numerous well-wishers, including representatives from various medical associations across the region, attended and expressed support for the new zone and the need for high-quality healthcare equipment.

In a vote of thanks, the Regional Vice President, East, Dr. Humphrey Obiefule expressed gratitude to the national President for his exemplary leadership and appreciated all who contributed to the success of the event.