Lusaka Provincial Health Director, Simulyamana Choonga has reaffirmed government’s commitment to partnering with private health facilities to strengthen service delivery and health outcomes.
Dr Choonga said the Ministry of Health cannot operate in isolation, stressing that public – private collaboration was essential to safeguard lives.
Speaking during an integrated private health facilities meeting in Lusaka, Dr Choonga commended private health institutions for achieving 100 percent reporting compliance, describing it as a significant milestone for accountability and coordination.
“We have seen improved reporting at 100 percent. The only challenge we are facing is the timing of submissions. Reporting has been done well so far, and we appreciate your efforts,” he stated.
Dr Choonga also addressed concerns over the circulation of health-related footage on social media and emphasised that while members of the public had the right to raise complaints, they must do so responsibly.
“The public has the right to complain, but it must be done rightfully. Every patient has the right to privacy, and this must be respected at all times,” he said.
Dr Choonga also highlighted the need to strengthen referral systems between public and private facilities to avoid unnecessary delays for patients seeking diagnostic service.
He further warned against the illegal transfer or sale of government-supplied medicines to private facilities.
“Drugs and equipment meant for public facilities must remain there. If someone takes drugs from a public facility and sells them to a private institution, that is a criminal offense,” he stressed.
Zambia Association of private facilities president, Collin West pledged continued partnership for quality service over competition.
