Ministry of Health Introduces New Framework to Increase Access to Medical Services

The Ministry of Health has introduced a new Peri-Operative Strategy Framework to increase access to medical services. The Framework aims to ensure that essential services are available at all healthcare levels. 

Dr Lishimpi, Health Permanent Secretary for Technical Services, announced the Perioperative Strategy while officiating a stakeholders' meeting to revise the National Surgery Obstetrics and Anesthesia Plan (NSAOP) in Lusaka. 

Lishimpi explained that the Strategy will be implemented in two phases over a seven-year period from 2024 to 2031. The first two years will focus on initial implementation in Kafue, Mumbwa, and Chongwe and will align with the National Health Strategic Plan 2021 - 2026.

The Permanent Secretary for Technical Services said the “Ministry of Health stands ready to work with all stakeholders to ensure that the policy development process is completed successfully.”

Dr Lishimpi explained 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 and forced the Ministry of Health to redirect resources. “However, this pause has allowed the Ministry of Health to reassess priorities and ensure the new strategy is firmly aligned with broader health goals,” the Permanent Secretary continued.

Earlier in the meeting, Orthopaedic Surgeon consultant Emmanuel Makasa commended the government for its continued efforts to support the works of surgeons in the country. 

Dr. Makasa said, “All surgeons are determined to continue rendering the needed services to those in need of help in hospitals.”

“(NSOAP) revision meeting is very important in strengthening the service delivery of surgeons.” He added.