From Vaccine Equity to Universal Health Coverage: Achieving health for all in Zambia

On this World Health Day, we spoke to Leo Ntinga of Chilenje General Hospital to find out why it is vital that health workers are among the first vaccinated and why Universal Health Coverage is critical for a healthy future.

1. What are the challenges in distributing COVID-19 vaccines in your country?

There is a lack of awareness among the general public in the sense that the general public has a bad perception of the vaccine. Additionally, there is a lack of clear information regarding the importance and genuineness of the vaccine.

2. Why do you think it’s important for health workers to be vaccinated?

Firstly, because we are front liners and have first contact with the patients who come to seek health care services. Secondly, we have to lead by example before extending it to the general public. Thirdly, so that we can be protected against the pandemic ourselves.

3. Why should people care about the issue of vaccine inequity?

People should care or be concerned about the unequal distribution of vaccines because if we are all not vaccinated, it means vaccines will serve no purpose on earth. People should get upset if they are not covered by the vaccine. Health care services must be distributed equally to everyone regardless of social status, race and religion.

4. What do you think are the barriers to achieving Universal Health Coverage in your country?

Cultural and religious beliefs play a role, as does family income in the sense that most households are impoverished and can’t afford some health services which are not free of charge. We also face inconsistent and often inadequate supplies of medical supplies. Lastly, limited funding to the Ministry of Health by the government results in inadequate health care staff and health facilities.

5. Why does UHC matter to you and why should it matter to everyone?

It matters to me in the sense that it gives me that feeling of having achieved health for all. Secondly, it matters for everyone because when UHC is achieved, we will have a healthy and productive nation.

6. What does solidarity in global health look like to you?

Ministries of Health, nations, NGOs and other local and global partners working together to achieve UHC.