Baines Imaging Group Warns of Patient Risk After Radiology Unit Closure

The Baines Imaging Group (BIG) has raised serious concerns about patient safety following the abrupt shutdown of its Radiology Department at a hospital run by the group. The organization described the move as unprecedented and potentially life-threatening.

According to a statement from BIG, the Avenues Clinic halted emergency and critical diagnostic services at Zimbabwe’s largest private 24-hour emergency facility over the Heroes Weekend, acting without consultation.

BIG alleges that no legal order or court directive was issued to authorize their eviction from premises they’ve occupied for more than 25 years. Reports indicate that security personnel forcibly removed both staff and management from the facility, with the incident now under police investigation at Harare Central (Case No. IR181907).

The group further claims that Avenues Clinic, operated by its parent company Medical Investments Limited, used a contested arbitration decision to justify the action—ignoring the implications for public health.

As of now, the radiology department has remained closed for more than five days, with the official reason given being a “stock take and asset verification.” However, this disruption has left critically ill patients without access to essential diagnostic services.

BIG emphasized that internal corporate disputes should not be allowed to interfere with public healthcare delivery. The organization is calling on national health authorities to intervene while it pursues legal options.

To maintain service continuity, BIG has been offering round-the-clock radiology services at its 52 Baines Medical Centre location since August 12. The group has assured medical professionals and patients alike that they remain committed to uninterrupted care.

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