This directive follows correspondence received from the Ministry of Health mandating that no patient in need of urgent care shall be denied or delayed assistance for lack of policeman presence.
According to a release from the Office from the Inspector General of Police, all health facilities are required to ensure correct documentation of such cases and to notify the nearest police station as soon as practicable after the patient has been attended to.
"The public and health workers are reminded that it is not necessary to wait for police before providing or receiving emergency care. However, timely reporting to the police remains a requirement for proper recordkeeping and any further investigation."
Security personnel are hereby directed to take note of this guidance and disseminate the information accordingly to avoid unnecessary delays that may endanger lives.
"The Gambia Police Force remains committed to working closely with health authorities to safeguard public safety and uphold the right to timely medical assistance." The release added.
