MQHZ Urges Hichilema to consolidate health gains

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President Hakainde Hichilema has been urged to use his second term to consolidate gains made in the health sector while addressing persistent gaps in access, quality and equity.

Medical for Quality Healthcare in Zambia (MQHZ) Director General Dr Quince Mwabu says the ultimate measure of progress should be sustained improvements in healthcare delivery and health outcomes, particularly among underserved communities.

Dr Mwabu says the re-election of President Hichilema provides an opportunity for government to build on investments made in the health sector over the past five years.

He says government has increased investment in healthcare, expanded health infrastructure, recruited additional health personnel and strengthened the availability of essential medicines and medical supplies.

Dr Mwabu says there has also been increased investment in diagnostic capacity and specialised health services, which he says has strengthened the health system and provided a foundation for improving access to care.

He says the next phase should focus on ensuring that these investments translate into effective service delivery and improved quality of care.

“This will require sustained attention to the functionality of health facilities, adequate staffing, availability of medicines and medical supplies, maintenance of equipment and infrastructure, and the equitable distribution of health services across the country,” Dr Mwabu said.

He says particular attention should be given to rural and underserved communities, where access to quality healthcare remains a challenge.

Dr Mwabu says the expansion of the health workforce should therefore be accompanied by effective deployment and retention of health personnel in areas where the need is greatest.

He also called for sustained investment in the procurement, supply-chain management and distribution of essential medicines and medical supplies, as well as stronger accountability.

Dr Mwabu says investments in health infrastructure and equipment must equally be supported by adequate staffing, maintenance and operational resources to ensure health facilities remain functional.

He further urged government to strengthen primary healthcare, preventive services, early disease detection and management, maternal and child health, as well as the prevention and management of non-communicable diseases.

Dr Mwabu says greater attention should also be given to patient safety and the overall quality of care.

“The first term has provided important foundations for strengthening Zambia’s health system. The priority in the second term should be to consolidate these gains and translate them into sustained improvements in healthcare delivery and health outcomes,” he said.

Ends

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