Senate proposes six-month jail term for hospitals denying emergency care
- ✦Titled, “A Bill for an Act to Amend the National Health Act, 2014 to Provide for Emergency Medical Treatment Standards and Referral Protocols in Healthcare Facilities; and for Related Matters, 2026” (SB.
- The bill, sponsored by Senator Abdulaziz Musa Yar’Adua (APC, Katsina Central), seeks to amend the National Health Act, 2014, to establish mandatory emergency medical treatment standards and referral protocols in healthcare facilities.
- Leading debate on the bill, Yar’Adua said the proposed amendment would address critical gaps in Nigeria’s healthcare system by establishing enforceable standards for emergency treatment and referral procedures.
- Titled, “A Bill for an Act to Amend the National Health Act, 2014 to Provide for Emergency Medical Treatment Standards and Referral Protocols in Healthcare Facilities; and for Related Matters, 2026” (SB.
By Henry Umoru ABUJA — The Senate has passed for second reading a bill seeking to make it compulsory for public and private hospitals across Nigeria to provide emergency medical treatment, prescribing up to six months’ imprisonment for facilities and individuals who violate its provisions.
Frequently Asked Questions About This Story
What is the latest development regarding Benue State?
The bill, sponsored by Senator Abdulaziz Musa Yar’Adua (APC, Katsina Central), seeks to amend the National Health Act, 2014, to establish mandatory emergency medical treatment standards and referral protocols in healthcare facilities.
Who are the key organizations or public figures mentioned?
The primary parties identified in this coverage include Benue State, All Progressives Congress, Federal Capital Territory.
What timeline or key figures were confirmed?
The proposed legislation also prescribes a fine of up to ₦300,000, imprisonment for six months, or both, for anyone convicted of denying emergency medical treatment.
