The Standard Group Plc is a multi-media organization with investments in media platforms spanning newspaper print
operations, television, radio broadcasting, digital and online services. The Standard Group is recognized as a
leading multi-media house in Kenya with a key influence in matters of national and international interest.
The National Authority for Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) is threatening to close almost half of the rehab centers in the country due to missing out on legal and operational standards.
NACADA is concerned with the increasing number of rehabilitation centres that are operating without adherence to the requisite legal frameworks and data protection guidelines.
“As mandated under the Narcotics Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (Control) Act, 1994, and in line with the Data Protection Act, 2019, all rehabilitations facilities must meeting meet stringent legal and operational standards. These include accreditation by NACADA, compliance with client confidentiality provisions, and ensuring the highest standards of treatment protocols,” says NACADA CEO Dr Antony Omerikwa.
Dr Omwerikwa says the disregard for this not only jeopardizes the quality of care provided to individuals seeking help but also exposes clients to potential violations of their rights and privacy.
The authority has accredited 78 rehabilitation facilities out of the 150 that were inspected this financial year. This is done based on strict adherence to the law and best practices in rehabilitation.
“Facilities that do not meet these standards are given feedback and guidance on how to align their operations. However, the Authority reiterates that it will not hesitate to revoke accreditation for facilities found to violate these requirements,” he warned.
The CEO intimated that his organisation is closely monitoring activities within the rehabilitation sector and will take form legal action against unaccredited or non-compliant facilities. Those found contravening risk facing the full extent of the law, including closure and prosecution.
Some of the requirements required by the Authority include Space and structural layout with placement rooms to certain standards including having brightly colored walls, provision of special care, and examination rooms for medical examination, emergencies and detox.
- New push to stop use of animal drugs on people
- Be wary of fake cancer drug in the market, Poisons Board warns
- Unused, expired drugs cause disposal mess
- More varsity students smoking bhang, Nacada
Keep Reading
NACADA also requires the facilities to have written or electronic records of all assessments shall be confidentially kept in a secure location, only available to the staff directly involved in the treatment.
Proper documentation shall include at minimum; signed consent to treatment and agreement on programme rules; signed confidentiality and ethics policy; appropriate treatment and management plans for each resident; regular updates with details of treatment, progress and any changes to the original goals; and a completion summary at the end of the programme (informing the resident of its contents).
join