By Suleman Chitera

Mponela, Dowa — The Medical Council of Malawi (MCM) has urged private healthcare practitioners to uphold professionalism and ethical standards as the country seeks to improve the quality, safety and accessibility of healthcare services.

MCM Registrar and Chief Executive Officer Dr Davie Zolowere made the call during the National Paramedical Private Practitioners Association of Malawi (NAPPPAM) annual convention held at Mponela in Dowa District.

Zolowere said healthcare practitioners have a responsibility to maintain high professional standards and ensure that patients receive safe and quality care regardless of where they seek treatment.Medical Council Fault Dr Dzamalala’s Autopsy Report

He said the continuing professional development (CPD) session at the convention was an important opportunity for private practitioners to strengthen their knowledge, skills and attitudes, particularly in the areas of professionalism and medical ethics.

According to Zolowere, continuous training is essential for healthcare workers because the medical profession continues to evolve, requiring practitioners to regularly update their knowledge and improve how they provide services to patients.

He encouraged private practitioners to treat professional and ethical conduct as a core part of healthcare delivery rather than simply a regulatory requirement.

NAPPPAM calls for malaria treatment subsidy

Meanwhile, NAPPPAM National President Davies Kapota has appealed to government to consider subsidising essential medical treatments, particularly malaria treatment for children under five.K73 Million Therere Health Center Revives Medical Hope

Kapota said government support for essential treatment could help reduce the financial burden on families and improve access to healthcare for people living in hard-to-reach areas.

He said children under five remain particularly vulnerable to malaria and other illnesses, making affordable and timely access to treatment critical.

Kapota argued that subsidies could help address inequalities in healthcare access and ensure that people in remote communities are not disadvantaged because of their location or inability to meet treatment costs.

The appeal comes amid continued calls for stronger collaboration between government, private healthcare providers and professional regulatory bodies to improve healthcare delivery across Malawi.Medical Council probes maternal deaths at Mzimba District Hospital

The NAPPPAM convention provided a platform for private paramedical practitioners to discuss professional development, ethical healthcare practice and challenges affecting service delivery.