Public Health Workers Crucial for Achieving Universal Health Coverage, Says Health Minister
Health Minister Sylvia Masebo has emphasized the vital role of public health workers in achieving universal health coverage (UHC), highlighting the need for collaborative efforts and partnerships across various sectors.
Speaking through Health Permanent Secretary for Administration, Professor Christopher Simoonga, during the Public Health Symposium at UNICAF University, Ms. Masebo outlined the government’s commitment to UHC as a central strategy within the national health strategic plan for 2022-2026.
The symposium, themed “Redefining and Accelerating Universal Health Coverage Through A Public Health Approach,” underscored the importance of a decentralized primary health care system.
Ms. Masebo reiterated that the continuous recruitment of public health professionals is crucial for delivering promotive and preventive health care services, which are essential for UHC.
“The importance of public health professionals cannot be overstated when responding to public health threats,” Ms. Masebo said, pointing to the recent cholera outbreak as a reminder of the need for robust public health infrastructure and swift response mechanisms.
Ms. Masebo also addressed the major behavioral risk factors contributing to non-communicable diseases in Zambia, such as physical inactivity, unhealthy diets, tobacco use, and the harmful use of alcohol.
She emphasized that these risks can be mitigated through investment in public health practices and professionals who address these issues at the community level.
Furthermore, the Health Minister highlighted the correlation between high illiteracy and low education levels with poor health outcomes, stress, low income, and low self-esteem.
“These factors underscore the need for health education and literacy to empower individuals with problem-solving skills and access to health information,” she stated.
The government’s support for the introduction of public health professionals aims to provide promotive and preventive healthcare services, conduct research to inform decision-making, and address health problems effectively.
Ms. Masebo concluded by reaffirming the Ministry of Health’s commitment to strengthening public health to ensure that all Zambians can achieve better health outcomes.
The symposium at UNICAF University brought together health professionals, policymakers, and stakeholders to discuss strategies and best practices for accelerating UHC in Zambia through a robust public health approach.
