It has become a big offense for any Optometrist working in Abia State civil service and government-owned medical institutions to divert patients to their private clinics.
This warning was given by the Administrator of the Abia State Eye Health Management Bureau, Dr Betty Emeka-Obasi at the maiden meeting of Optometrists in Abia State civil service.
She said that any doctor, discovered to be diverting patients, would be strictly sanctioned, adding that the administration of Governor Alex Otti established the Abia State Eye Health Management Bureau to achieve affordable, standardized and accessible eye-care services for every citizen across the State.
Emeke-Obasi also 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.
The Administrator reminded the Optometrists that the Bureau was established by an Executive Order dated, July 15, 2024, to give dedicated attention to the eye care sector.
Also speaking at event, the Director of Administration, Abia State Ministry of Health, Mrs. Okoroafor Ngozi Uche called for punctuality and respect to work ethics.
She said that the doctors should be at work from Monday to Friday, as well as remain on duty until the closing hours, expressing disappointment over reports of absenteeism and early departures among some of them.
In response, one of the optometrists, Dr. Emmanuel Nwaji, appreciated the Administrator for organizing the meeting and assured her that they would uphold the civil service rules, as well as carry-out their lawful duties diligently to improve eye-care services in the State.