Tanzania launches treatment guidelines to bolster its healthcare services

ARUSHA: THE Minister for Health Mohamed Mchengerwa has launched the National Treatment Guidelines and National Essential Medicines List aimed at improving the quality of healthcare services, promoting the rational use of medicines and enhancing the efficiency of resources within the country’s health system.

Speaking during the launch, Mchengerwa said the guidelines were an important government tool for ensuring that citizens receive safe, quality and effective healthcare services based on scientific evidence.

He said the guidelines establish common standards for diagnosis and treatment, guide the appropriate use of medicines, support the availability of essential medicines and ensure that healthcare services are delivered in accordance with national standards at all levels of service provision.

“This edition takes into account ongoing changes in the health sector, including advances in scientific knowledge, changes in disease patterns and health challenges, developments in medical technologies and the availability of new medicines,” Mchengerwa said.

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He added that the guidelines had been developed based on scientific evidence and contributions from experts and various stakeholders, while also taking into consideration safety, effectiveness and economic value in the recommended healthcare services and medicines.

Mchengerwa said proper implementation of the guidelines would help ensure that citizens receive appropriate and safe treatment, provide healthcare professionals with a reference for clinical decision-making, and improve the planning, procurement and distribution of essential medicines across the country.

He emphasised that healthcare facilities should begin using the guidelines in delivering services, while the Medical Stores Department (MSD) should use the National Essential Medicines List when planning, procuring and distributing medicines.

He further directed the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) to align its provision and financing of healthcare services with the treatment standards outlined in the guidelines, in accordance with the Fund’s Act and Regulations.

Mchengerwa urged healthcare professionals, heads of health facilities, public and private institutions, and other stakeholders to ensure the guidelines are properly implemented.