High tech equipment to boost Zim health sector

Published: 13 December 2013

The public health sector in Zimbabwe has been recently described as one of the lowly performing service sectors in the country of which it is supposed to be one of the best performing sector since a health is critical for economic growth.

The sector has been facing serious challenges which include medicine and medical professional shortages.

These shortages high light poor access to and supply chain management of pharmaceuticals, as well as the reluctance of doctors, nurses and other medical professionals to work in the challenging healthcare environment.

However on a positive note, international interest in the healthcare technology sector has been demonstrated by the partnership deal between Iran and the Zimbabwean Harare Institute of Technology.

A few months ago the country hosted a four-member Iranian delegation is in Zimbabwe which sought areas of co-operation in the field of science and technology to help transform and develop the country's use of new technologies.

This was a very important initiative as it will facilitate in improving the health conditions in the country.

However the question in people's minds may be on the cost of the health care facility making it becomes difficult whether to welcome or fear new technology. New technology will enhance efficiency in the system and reduce the burdensome work of having to attend to many ill people.

One thing that people should know is that technology does not raise prices in most parts of the economy. Improvements in computers provide better products at lower prices, and automobiles are an equally good example technology includes procedures whose benefits are substantial for most patients.

The general public believes that technology will improve health care efficiency, quality, safety, and cost. However, few people consider that these same technologies may also introduce errors and adverse events.

While technology holds much promise, the benefits of a specific technology may not be realised due to some common pitfalls.
- bh24