Title: The operationalization of the law for public health in the DRC: a major step forward towards Universal Health Coverage
Introduction :
From September 29 to 30, 2023, a workshop was held in Kinshasa to operationalize the law for public health in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This event, organized by the Ministry of Health, Hygiene Prevention, brought together experts and lawyers to put in place the necessary implementation measures for the achievement of Universal Health Coverage (UHC). In this article, we will return to the main discussions during this workshop and the implications of the operationalization of this law for the DRC.
The link between UHC and health security:
One of the main objectives of this workshop was to raise awareness among participants about the close link between UHC and health security. Indeed, UHC aims to guarantee access to health services for all citizens, while health security aims to prevent and respond to emerging health threats. These two areas are complementary and must be integrated into the organization of the health system in the DRC.
Implementation measures identified:
During the workshop, experts identified the legal needs for the operationalization of the law for public health in the DRC. A roadmap has been established, aimed at accelerating the development and adoption of the necessary enforcement measures. It is planned to set up a technical commission responsible for supervising this process.
The irreversibility of UHC in the DRC:
In his speech, the Minister of Health, Hygiene and Prevention stressed that the implementation of UHC in the DRC was now irreversible. This initiative, supported by President Félix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo, represents one of the key promises of his mandate. The operationalization of the law for public health constitutes a crucial step towards achieving this ambitious objective.
Conclusion :
The workshop to operationalize the public health law in the DRC marks a major step forward towards achieving UHC in the country. By putting in place the necessary enforcement measures, the Congolese government demonstrates its commitment to access to health services for all citizens. This initiative will also help strengthen health security and address emerging health challenges. The establishment of a technical commission to supervise this process will make it possible to accelerate progress and quickly achieve UHC in the DRC.