By Phillimon Backson
The Parliamentary Committee on Health has urged the government to introduce additional levies on products such as alcohol and cigarettes to generate revenue for the health sector, citing their harmful effects on human health.
Chairperson of the committee, Anthony Masamba has noted that the consumption of alcohol and cigarettes contributes significantly to diseases such as tuberculosis (TB) and other health conditions.
Presenting the committee’s report Masamba, said that the government should proceed with its plan to introduce a paying section in public hospitals.
He added that the funds generated through this initiative would help strengthen efforts to combat major diseases, including TB.
However, Masamba emphasized that in implementing the policy, the government must ensure that vulnerable groups are not adversely affected.
He stressed the need for safeguards to protect low-income citizens from additional financial burdens when accessing healthcare services.
Minister of Health, Madalitso Baloyi, said the government is currently reviewing and developing guidelines to ensure the proposals are implemented effectively.
She assured that the appropriate measures will be put in place before rolling out the policy on user fees in public hospitals.
