Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health Helen Royer has announced that emphasis will be placed on non-communicable and communicable diseases including HIV Aids and tuberculosis as well as nutrition during a review of the draft Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) Strategic Plan for 2013 – 2019.
She made the announcement at the launch of a national consultation on Monday, to review the strategic plan and and Biennal Work Plan and Program Budget 2014-2025.
Royer said “I have noticed that a substantial amount of money has been allocated to these areas and this is welcoming news as it synchronizes with our strategic plan for health 2010-2019 which places emphasis on chronic non-communicable diseases, the leading cause of morbidity and mortality.”
She noted that today’s fast changing world calls for close partnership between countries as globalization presents many challenges to small island states like Dominica.
“We should co-operate with the aim of achieving mutual benefits. We can no longer think we can do it alone and this strategic planning workshop will assist in enhancing our knowledge and ultimately enhancing the health system.”
Pan American Health Organisation Representative, Dr Beryl Irons pointed out that health is a specific investment which has to be made by all countries.
She said a major health focus in all the countries is investment along the life course from birth to death.
The new strategic plan, according to Advisor Sally Edwards, places emphasis on improved quality of life, sustainable development and equity.
The one day consultation forms part of efforts to obtain a collective input from the Health ministry and the proposed budget program.
Participants are expected to look at prioritization and stratification within the strategic plan of 2014 – 2019.
