MALAWI: Mzuzu Central Hospital Stresses Importance Of Health Sector Strategic Plan III

By Smile Hamilton, Malawi 

Mzuzu Central Hospital has underscored the need to implement the Health Sector Strategic Plan III (HSSP III), to enhance hospital financing and ensure efficient use of available funds.

According to the hospital’s Director General, Dr. John Chipolombwe, this plan is crucial for improving hospital functionality, particularly given the funding challenges faced by many facilities.

To address these challenges, the hospital introduced an optional paying service under the Public Finance Act of 2022, known as the Mzuzu Central Hospital Treasury Fund.

This fund helps finance health, administrative, and support services at the hospital.

Notably, 95% of the funds collected are retained and used by the hospital, while 5% goes to the government.

During a media briefing, Dr. Chipolombwe emphasised the importance of the media in ensuring that the public understands the optional nature of the paying service.

Journalist Sam Kalimira highlighted that free services remain available, and it is essential to communicate this effectively to the public.

The Health Sector Strategic Plan III (2023-2030) prioritises several key areas, including service delivery, infrastructure development, workforce enhancement, supply chain improvements, digital health, governance, and health financing.

By focusing on these areas, the plan aims to promote Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and improve the overall health sector in Malawi.