Kudzai Madenga
Bulawayo residents have urged the government and healthcare providers to prioritize accessibility and affordability of healthcare services, particularly for the elderly.
Concerns were raised about the current healthcare system during a public hearing on the Medical Services Amendment Bill 2024, held in Bulawayo on Wednesday.
Florence Moyo, a retired nurse, highlighted the exorbitant costs of healthcare and called for reforms to ensure that services are accessible to all, regardless of age.
Pamela Sibanda, a resident, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the need for affordable medical aid options for the elderly. She urged medical aid providers to adjust their pricing to better accommodate senior citizens.
“When you are old, you need affordable medical aid. Medical aid providers must adjust their prices to better support and accommodate elderly citizens,” said Sibanda
Nelson Mashiri, another resident, spoke about the financial burden faced by those over 60. He noted the limited resources in public hospitals, often forcing elderly patients to seek expensive treatment in private facilities.
Tawanda Phiri questioned the 70-year age limit for free healthcare, suggesting a reduction to 60 years to ensure more citizens can benefit from this provision.
The Medical Services Amendment Bill aims to align the Medical Services Act with constitutional provisions and introduce free healthcare for individuals aged 70 and above.
