The government of Tanzania is preparing new national guidelines aimed at reducing the cost of medical treatment and improving access to healthcare services for citizens.
The announcement was made by Mohamed Mchengerwa, Tanzania’s Minister of Health, during the launch of the “Talk to the Minister” public engagement programme at Mwananyamala Regional Referral Hospital. The initiative allows members of the public to directly communicate with the health minister and share their concerns about healthcare services.
Speaking during the launch, Minister Mchengerwa said the government is working on new policies that will help lower the cost of treatment in hospitals and health facilities across the country. He noted that many Tanzanians struggle with high medical expenses, which often prevent them from receiving timely treatment.
According to the minister, the new guidelines will focus on improving transparency in medical charges, regulating treatment costs, and strengthening oversight within the health sector. The reforms are also expected to encourage better management of medical supplies and services in both public and private health facilities.
The “Talk to the Minister” programme is part of the government’s efforts to improve communication between health authorities and the public. Through the platform, citizens can call or send messages to the minister to report challenges, give suggestions, and seek solutions to healthcare issues.
Health officials say the feedback collected through the programme will help the government better understand the challenges faced by patients and health workers, and guide the development of policies aimed at improving the healthcare system.
The government hopes the new guidelines will make healthcare services more affordable, improve the quality of treatment, and ensure that more Tanzanians can access essential medical care without facing financial hardship.
