Govt spells out need for health systems audit

Health Reporter—
GOVERNMENT says there is need for a comprehensive audit of the health system to come up with clear strategies for the next five years. Health and Child Care Minister Dr David Parirenyatwa said the task before his ministry was a challenging one that provides him with an opportunity to re-audit the whole system.

Dr Parirenyatwa is not new to the ministry having previously held the portfolio. He bounced back last week to lead the ministry which is mired in challenges that need urgent attention as the new dispensation get down to work and fulfil promises it made during the election campaign period.

“We want to audit and really see what benefits the citizens of Zimbabwe and we are ready to get it going,” said Minister Parirenyatwa, in an interview last week.

He said issues of human resources for health, infrastructure and user fees would be a priority.
His vision would be to make sure that the status of all health institutions was uplifted to match world class institutions.

He was also aiming at reducing the number of people seeking health services out of the country when the country has all the expertise required.

The minister emphasised the need to strengthen primary health care by reducing distances travelled to clinics, making medicines available at the clinics and providing adequate human resources for health.