Increased health funding cheers minister
GOVERNMENT has increased allocation of funds to the health sector by K1 billion. Government has allocated K6.8 billion to the sector in 2018 compared to K5.8 billion which was allocated in 2017.
And Health Minister Chitalu Chilufya has described the increased allocation as a great move.
Dr Chilufya said health was key to enhancing productivity and the welfare of the people. He vowed that Government would work tirelessly to ensure that the health sector was improved and that every Zambian had access to health facilities and services.
"The budget was on point and I am happy that Government has increased the allocation of funds for 2018, health is an important sector because if people are unhealthy, then the country can't develop," Dr Chilufya said. According to Finance Minister Felix Mutati, of the total amount allocated to the health sector, K1.2 billion would be used for procurement of essential drugs and medical supplies representing a 56 percent increase over the 2017 allocation.
Mr Mutati said the balance would be used to finance health infrastructure, medical equipment and staff costs, including the recruitment of medical personnel. He disclosed that 1,000 health personnel would be recruited in 2018 to add to the 7,400 recruited this year.
"Human resource for health remains a critical component in the provision of quality health services to the Zambian people, “Mr Mutati said.
The minister also indicated that Government would establish a Social Health Scheme to increase the resource envelope and enhance universal health coverage.
Mr Mutati said the Social Health Insurance Bill will be tabled before Parliament.