RDAZ wants diagnostic equipment, hospital upgrades prioritized in 2027 budget

The Resident Doctors Association of Zambia (RDAZ) has called on the government to priorities diagnostic equipment and health infrastructure in the 2027 National Budget to improve access to medical services, particularly in rural areas.

Speaking in an interview with Zambian Business Times-ZBT, RDAZ president Dr. Paul Chibwe said some health facilities still lacked basic diagnostic equipment, forcing patients to travel to larger hospitals to access services such as X-rays and other medical scans.

Dr. Chibwe cited some rural parts as an example of the challenges patients face when health facilities lack essential diagnostic tools, saying some patients had to be referred to Levy Mwanawasa University Teaching Hospital for X-ray services.

“The situation reflects the government need to invest in modern diagnostic equipment, including functional X-ray, CT scan and MRI machines, as well as ensure existing equipment was properly maintained,” said Dr. Chibwe.

Dr. Chibwe also called for increased investment in upgrading health facilities, including those earmarked for conversion into higher-level hospitals, to strengthen healthcare delivery and reduce the burden on major referral centres.

“Improving infrastructure and access to diagnostic equipment is essential in ensuring patients receive timely diagnoses and appropriate treatment closer to their communities,”said Dr. Chibwe.

Article by Karen Ngulube