adminTanaka Mahanya
Primary healthcare facilities should continuously be strengthened to lessen the burden on the limited number of specialists in Zimbabwe, the World Health Organisation has said.
In a speech read on her behalf at an event to commemorate World Hearing Day in Bulawayo on Friday, Bulawayo Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister, Judith Ncube, said access to healthcare services to the generality of Zimbabweans was a necessity.
“Investing in ear and hearing health is crucial for achieving sustainable development goals. Inclusive education with sign language integration will promote diversity and accessibility,” she said.
Bulawayo provincial medical director, Dr Maphios Siamuchembu, said the Government was currently reviewing the National Ear and Hearing Strategy to align with the National Health Strategy.
“In addition, 306 health workers have been capacitated to provide ear, nose and throat services,” Dr Siamuchembu said.
WHO Zimbabwe NCD specialist, Tsitsi Siwela, said access to healthcare facilities would greatly benefit communities.
“Strengthening primary healthcare facilities is crucial for effective ear and hearing care management, to avoid overwhelming the limited number of specialists in Zimbabwe. This will also benefit communities with accessible services,” she said.
World Hearing Day is held on March 3 each year to raise awareness on how to prevent deafness and hearing loss and promote ear and hearing care across the globe.
Online Reporter