Government commits to resolve challenges in autism treatment
DAR ES SALAAM: THE government has reaffirmed its commitment to addressing the challenges of autism treatment in the country aiming to improve the lives of children affected by the condition.
This statement was made by the Director of Medical Services in the Ministry of Health, Dr Hamad Nyembea, who represented the Minister for Health at the 3rd Autism Fundraising event held recently in Dar es Salaam.
The well-being of children with autism and other developmental challenges is among top government priority.
“Despite the obstacles they face, many children possess exceptional intellectual abilities and can achieve remarkable things when provided with a supportive environment. It is crucial to assist them so they can contribute to building our nation,” said Dr Nyembea.
He said that rehabilitation services are a key focus for the Ministry of Health, noting that the government has allocated 2bn/- on this fiscal year to strengthen rehabilitation services.
Dr Nyembea highlighted various government initiatives to address autism treatment challenges, including encouraging all district and regional hospitals to offer at least three out of the four core rehabilitation services including physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and speech and communication therapy.
He said the goal is to expand these services to municipal hospitals, which are more widely available, to ensure children receive the care needed.
He also noted plans to increase the number of specialists in rehabilitation services through Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS) to address the shortage of such professionals in the country.
“The government has taken deliberate steps this year to train more professionals in rehabilitation services. MUHAS has introduced a bachelor’s degree programme in audiology and speech communication science. Currently, there are very few such specialists in the country.We expect this initiative to train experts who will enhance rehabilitation services, particularly in speech communication,” he said.
He added that the government plans to train at least 56 healthcare workers from various facilities to begin providing services for children with autism noting that 66m/- have been set aside for the training.
Furthermore, Dr Nyembea commended the Lukiza Foundation for leading efforts to raise autism awareness, calling the need for collective action to address challenges in accessing autism treatment.
He added,” We are also aware of the high costs associated with autism care, as it is one of the most expensive non-communicable diseases (NCDs) to manage, given that it cannot be completely cured. Collective efforts from both the government and the community are essential to overcome these challenges.
The government has continued various interventions, including universal health insurance and it is the responsibility of everyone to support these children.
