Ethiopia is making significant progress in its efforts to enhance the capacity of local hospitals to handle complex medical cases, aiming to reduce the need for citizens to seek treatment abroad. This was announced by the Minister of Health, Dr. Mekdes Daba, during a recent Q&A session organized by the Prime Minister's office.
Dr. Mekdes emphasized the government's commitment to upgrading the national healthcare system, particularly focusing on the development of referral and tertiary hospitals. This strategic move is intended to equip Ethiopian medical facilities with the advanced resources and expertise necessary to treat a wider range of conditions within the country.
The Health Minister assured the public that government clinics are currently capable of providing essential medical care to citizens. She also acknowledged that in certain situations referrals to private clinics occur. However, Dr. Mekdes reiterated the government's overarching goal of ensuring that all Ethiopians have access to quality medical treatment within their own country.
Dr. Mekdes highlighted the ongoing initiatives to upgrade existing hospitals and invest in the broader health sector, ultimately aiming to minimize the necessity for citizens to travel internationally for medical treatments.
The Minister's remarks underscore the government's commitment to strengthening Ethiopia's healthcare infrastructure and ensuring greater access to specialized medical services for all its citizens.