BOTSWANA—The Ministry of Health in Botswana has expanded the range of health professionals permitted to engage in private practice.
Dr. Christopher Nyanga, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, announced this significant development in a statement shared on the Ministry’s official Facebook page.
Dr. Nyanga said this decision marks a historic milestone, prompting a comprehensive revision of the private practice licensing guidelines.
The revisions aim to enhance regulatory standards and ensure that private health practitioners in Botswana provide the highest-quality services.
The updated guidelines are designed to serve as a crucial framework for the Minister of Health, the Director of Health Services, and the Private Practice and Licensing Committee in implementing the licensing instruments.
These changes are effective immediately, reflecting the Ministry’s commitment to fostering a modern health sector capable of addressing the challenges of today’s unpredictable public health landscape.
Moreover, the revisions are expected to broaden access to healthcare services across the Botswana.
Among the notable additions to the private health practice space are the introduction of Nursing and Midwifery-led practices, the provision for multiple licensing, the expansion of outreach services, and the promotion of citizen empowerment initiatives.
These changes are expected to create a more inclusive and accessible healthcare system, which aligns with Botswana’s broader health aspirations.
The Ministry emphasized that these new developments are in line with Botswana’s commitment to achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC), a key objective of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Additionally, these changes are part of Botswana’s strategic vision to achieve high-income status by 2036, with a strong emphasis on improving healthcare services for all citizens.
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