Ministry of Health says it recognizes the importance of improving peri – operative care as part of broader efforts to strengthen the health system and improve health outcomes of citizens.
Health Permanent Secretary for Technical Services Kennedy Lishimpi made the remarks when he officiated at the National Surgical, Obstetric and Anesthesia Plan (NSOAP) revision stakeholders meeting and stated that the Ministry of Health stands ready to work with all stakeholders in order to ensure that the policy development process is completed successfully.
Dr. Lishimpi said the NSOAP revision meeting is not only a reflection of government’s continued dedication to improving health outcomes in Zambia but also an opportunity to chart the way forward for an inclusive and effective peri operative care strategy.
He revealed that the revision of the NSOAP has been delayed due to a combination of challenges, including the global covid – 19 pandemic, which stretched Zambia’s health systems to the limit and forced the Ministry of Health to redirect resources.
Dr Lishimpi added that the change of government and subsequent need to realign priorities within the National Health Strategic Plan (NHSP) 2021 – 2026 also played a role in this delay.
He however stated that this pause has allowed the Ministry of Health to reassess priorities and ensure the new strategy is firmly aligned with broader health goals. And that it is imperative for efforts to be expanded by introducing a new, more inclusive framework, which will be referred to to as the Peri – Operative Strategy.
Dr. Lishimpi revealed that this strategic shift reflects the ministry’s commitment to ensuring that surgical obstetric and anesthesia services are accessible at all levels of care from district hospitals to primary Healthcare facilities.
He said this approach guarantees that the full spectrum of service delivery, encompassing prevention, health promotion, treatment, rehabilitation and palliative care is addressed.
He further revealed that the new peri – operative strategy will have two phases that span a total of seven years, from 2024 – 2031 and the first two years of the strategy will focus on initial implementation in Kafue, Mumbwa and Chongwe and will align with the Natonal Health Strategic Plan 2021 – 2026.
Speaking earlier Orthopaedic Surgeon consultant Emmanuel Makasa commended the government for its continued efforts in supporting the works of surgeons in the country.
Dr. Makasa said all surgeons are determined to continue rendering the needed services to those in need help in hospitals.
He said the (NSOAP) revision meeting is very important in strengthening the service delivery of surgeons.
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