Title: The operationalization of the Public Health law in the DRC: a decisive step towards Universal Health Coverage
Introduction :
The Ministry of Health, Hygiene Prevention of the Democratic Republic of Congo recently organized a workshop aimed at the operationalization of Law No. 18/035 of December 13, 2018, establishing the fundamental principles relating to the organization of Public Health . This law, modified and supplemented by Ordinance-Law No. 23/006 of March 3, 2023, is the cornerstone of the Universal Health Coverage system and the implementation of the International Health Regulations (IHR) (2005) in the DRC . This workshop brought together senior officials and lawyers from the Ministry, as well as experts from different public health structures and establishments.
An essential step towards Universal Health Coverage:
The implementation of the Universal Health Coverage system in the Democratic Republic of Congo is a strong commitment of President Felix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo. However, the implementation of this system requires legislative adaptations. Thus, the Public Health Law was amended to integrate the fundamental principles of Universal Health Coverage. This legislative modification makes the process of implementing this system irreversible and demonstrates the Congolese government’s desire to guarantee access to health care for all citizens.
Identification of legal needs and awareness:
The workshop made it possible to identify the legal needs necessary for the operationalization of the Public Health law. Participants were also made aware of the importance of taking implementing measures related to Universal Health Coverage and health security. This is a major challenge in guaranteeing the quality of care and the protection of the population against health risks.
Roadmap for developing enforcement measures:
The experts gathered at the workshop developed a roadmap for the drafting and adoption of measures for implementing the Public Health law. This roadmap will serve as a guide to accelerate the process of developing and adopting the measures necessary for the implementation of Universal Health Coverage in the DRC. It is planned to set up a technical commission responsible for implementing this roadmap.
Conclusion :
The workshop on the operationalization of the Public Health law in the DRC marks a significant step forward towards the establishment of the Universal Health Coverage system. The Congolese government’s commitment in this area is undeniable and demonstrates its desire to guarantee access to health care for all citizens. The drafting and adoption of implementing measures will be crucial steps in achieving this vision. The Democratic Republic of Congo is thus positioning itself as a major player in the promotion of health and the strengthening of the health system in Africa.