Title: Operationalization of the Public Health Law in the DRC: a step towards Universal Health Coverage
Introduction :
From September 29 to 30, 2023, the Ministry of Health, Hygiene Prevention organized a workshop to operationalize the Public Health law in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This event aims to put in place the necessary implementation measures for the implementation of Universal Health Coverage and the International Health Regulations (IHR) in the country.
A strong commitment from the government:
The modification of Law No. 18/035 of December 13, 2018 establishing the fundamental principles relating to the organization of Public Health, by Ordinance-Law No. 23/006 of March 3, 2023, reflects the government’s commitment Congolese towards the establishment of a Universal Health Coverage system. This initiative, promoted by Head of State Félix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo, aims to guarantee access to health care for all citizens of the country.
Identification of needs and roadmap:
During the workshop, experts from the Ministry of Health, Hygiene and Prevention identified the legal needs for the operationalization of the Public Health law. These needs made it possible to establish a road map for the drafting and adoption of the necessary implementing measures. Participants were also made aware of the link between Universal Health Coverage and health security.
Towards a concrete implementation:
In the next steps, a technical commission will be established to accelerate the development and adoption of the identified implementation measures. This step is crucial to achieve the implementation of the Universal Health Coverage system in the DRC and guarantee access to health care for all Congolese.
Conclusion :
The workshop to operationalize the Public Health law in the DRC marks a significant step forward towards the establishment of Universal Health Coverage in the country. The Congolese government’s commitment demonstrates its desire to ensure access to health care for all citizens. Putting in place the necessary enforcement measures is an important step towards realizing this promise and will help improve the health of the Congolese population.