Lunda-sul: The medical community in Lunda-Sul province has acknowledged significant advancements in the health sector over the past 50 years of Angola's National Independence, resulting in improved patient care. According to Angola Press News Agency, this recognition comes as Angola approaches its Independence Jubilee on November 11. Doctors in the region have highlighted the notable progress in Lunda-Sul's health sector, attributing it to investments made by the Angolan Executive. Hortênsia Miguel, a specialist in Public Health management with three decades of experience, emphasized visible improvements, ranging from infrastructure to the acquisition of advanced diagnostic equipment and staff training. The development in Lunda-Sul's health system is marked by new facilities, such as the Provincial Maternity Hospital and the General Hospital, offering diverse services and increased inpatient capacity. The director of the Provincial Maternity Hospital noted that Lunda-Sul now has 112 doctors, specialized mid wives, and licensed nurses across municipalities, contributing to effective healthcare delivery. Armando Serrote, a resident physician in Gynecology and Obstetrics, highlighted the sector's growth through modern infrastructure and the implementation of action protocols within health units. He emphasized that the investments have transformed the system, with new health units equipped with high-tech diagnostic and therapeutic resources, including a modern Provincial Maternity Hospital. The Ministry's strategic approach in establishing specialty colleges in Lunda-Sul's health units has fostered professional growth among new doctors. Nationally, investments in large reference hospitals have reduced patient transfers abroad, showcasing the sector's progress. Joana Gizela, a general practitioner in Cuanza-Sul province, cited improvements in medical and pharmaceutical assistance due to the deployment of doctors to municipalities, enhancing healthcare access and satisfaction. She noted that Angola's public and pri vate medical schools have bolstered the country's medical workforce, with improved working conditions facilitating humanized care. Viegas de Almeida, director of the Provincial Health Office in Lunda-Sul, remarked on the area's immeasurable progress, reducing patient transfers to other provinces. He pointed out the increase in Angolan specialist doctors from two in 2017 to 37, with more expected after upcoming exams. Lunda-Sul's health facilities have expanded from just over 30 in the 90s to 117 presently. Despite these advances, challenges remain, particularly in establishing a local Faculty of Medicine and building more health posts and centers. Viegas de Almeida advocated for the recruitment of new doctors, specialists, and nurses to enhance health coverage in the region.
