Online Reporter
Lovemore Kadzura
Post Reporter
PRIVATE sector investors in healthcare services play a key role in complementing the Government’s efforts to provide quality healthcare — thereby alleviating the burden on public institutions.
The sentiments were echoed by Health and Child Care Minister, Dr Douglas Mombeshora when he officially commissioned the 20-bed Tait Medical Centre in Rusape, last week.
Dr Mombeshora emphasised the need for robust partnerships between private players and Government to achieve universal health coverage.
He said the centre, manned by specialists in orthopedic surgery, urology, obstetrics, and gynecology, among others, brings relief to patients in the district who previously had to travel long distances for specialised care.
“The establishment of this centre arrives at a critical juncture. Our nation continues to confront rising demand for accessible and quality health services.
This centre multiplies the capacity of Makoni District to deliver lifesaving treatments, reduce the burden on public hospitals and shorten waiting time for surgery, diagnostics and specialised care.
“I am pleased that this investment is in Rusape, rather than big cities, a move which increases health access to our people. I commend the centre for offering an array of specialist services in orthopedic surgery, urology, ear nose and throat, obstetrics and gynecology and internal medicines — a first for Rusape.
“Our national health strategy calls for strengthened partnerships between Government and private providers to achieve universal health coverage. This centre exemplifies this principle in action. I pledge that the Ministry of Health and Child Care will work closely with this team to harmonise protocols, ensure regulatory compliance and support ongoing training for nurses, doctors and allied health workers. Together, we will build a seamless continuum of care of our communities. To the healthcare professionals who will staff these wards and theatres, you carry a noble responsibility. Your skills, bedside manner and unwavering commitment to ethical practice will define the patient experience here. The ministry will continue to invest in capacity building, professional development and mentorship programmes so that our health workforce remains among the finest of the continent,” said Dr Mombeshora.
Minister of State for Manicaland Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Advocate Misheck Mugadza said Government has created a conducive environment for private sector thrive, including in heath sector.
He said the facility has widened options for patients in Makoni.
“It is a testimony of the Second Republic led by President Mnangagwa in creating a conducive environment for business, including the private sector to thrive. We appreciate the directors of this centre for investing in private care. This hospital increases options available and access to the community in addition to a number of new facilities Government has opened in the last year in Makoni.
“This centre also resonates with Government’s broader vision to ensure that no one is left behind in the journey towards universal health coverage,” said Minister Mugadza.
The centre’s managing director, Dr Walter Mutindori, said they are filling somegaps existing in the health sector in Makoni, especially provision of specialist services.
“We stand as an example of how private players can partner with Government to drive national development. Building a hospital is building an economy. This institution has created 40 direct jobs, stimulated downstream employment for local service providers, and reduce pressure on public health service providers,” he said.
