Namibia: Minister moots free TB, HIV treatment for Angolans

Dr Kamwi said it will help deal with challenges posed by communicable diseases fuelled by cross-border movements between the two countries.

Addressing parliament on preventing the spread of infectious diseases recently, the minister said it is important for the Cabinet to approve free treatment for Angolans with TB and other infectious diseases at a point of service delivery in Namibia.

The minister has in the past called on the government to approve a resolution that will allow Angolans with TB and other infectious diseases be treated free of charge at public health facilities in Namibia.

"This is particularly so given the anecdotal reports of a vibrant ‘medical tourism’ industry characterised by patients from Angola travelling to Namibia to seek treatment at private and public health facilities," he said.

He stated that of 40 percent of patients admitted to Windhoek’s Katutura State Hospital’s TB unit, and 30 percent being treated at the Engela District Hospital in the Ohangwena Region are from Angola.

He said assisting Angolans will ensure that Namibia’s commendable progress in TB and HIV/Aids control is not compromised, adding that untreated persons with TB or HIV remain the most significant threat to keeping the diseases under control in the country.

"Given that we cannot control the constant movement of persons along common borders due to family-ties, inter-marriages and economic needs, it is important to ensure that this movement does not jeopardise disease control efforts," Dr Kamwi added.

Providing health services to Angolans, Kamwi said is line with the ideals of the World Health Organisation (WHO) that calls on countries to refrain from turning away sick foreigners from neighbouring countries when they are in need of access to health services.

Source: StarAfrica