By Chioma Obinna

After a thorough recertification audit exercise, Nigeria’s Bridge Clinic’s quality management system has been recertified for excellent healthcare services.

The ISO 9001:2015 certification is a globally recognised standard that emphasizes the importance of an effective quality management system (QMS).

The fertility centre which stands as a beacon of excellence was endorsed for another recertification after a thorough audit of the facility last week by Dr. Peter Sögner, the Lead Auditor for Quality Austria.

The recertification was announced at a joint media briefing in Lagos by Dr. Peter Sögner and the Managing Director of the Clinic, Mr Sunny Ekhalume.

According to Sogner, the outcome of this meticulous exercise was the recertification of the clinic’s quality management system.

In 2004, Bridge Clinic achieved a historic feat by becoming the first clinic in Africa to be awarded the prestigious ISO 9001 quality management certification. Fast forward to 2024, and the clinic has upheld this esteemed accreditation which demonstrates its unwavering dedication to excellence.

Addressing journalists, Sogner said the recent audit has confirmed that Bridge Clinic continues to meet and exceed the rigorous requirements set by the standard, further solidifying its position as a leader in providing top-notch fertility services.

He said the benefits are profound and far-reaching, impacting not only the quality of care but also the overall patient experience.

Speaking, the Managing Director of the Clinic, Mr Sunny Ekhalume explained that at the core of the ISO 9001 certification is a commitment to customer satisfaction. “By adhering to stringent quality management practices, Bridge Clinic ensures that the needs and expectations of patients are not only met but exceeded. From the moment a patient walks through the doors to the completion of their treatment, the focus remains on delivering care that is compassionate, effective, and patient-centric.

“Quality management is not just about meeting standards; it’s about optimizing processes to enhance efficiency. By maintaining ISO 9001 certification, Bridge Clinic demonstrates a commitment to operational excellence. The ISO 9001 certification necessitates a culture of continuous improvement.”

He explained that the Clinic’s commitment to this ethos means that they are constantly evaluating and refining their processes.

“This proactive approach not only ensures compliance with international standards but also fosters an environment where healthcare providers are encouraged to stay abreast of the latest advancements, ensuring that patients benefit from the best and most up-to-date treatments.

ISO 9001 is a globally recognised standard, and Bridge Clinic’s adherence to it not only signifies their commitment to quality but also enhances the international standing of the clinic. Patients can trust that they are receiving care from a facility that has been rigorously assessed and meets the highest global standards, instilling confidence in the quality of fertility services provided.”

He said a testament to their quality standard is their consistently high pregnancy rate which has led to the delivery of over 3,000 babies since inception in 1999. This translates to one baby every three days.