Health Care Law at Mozambique
Healthcare in Mozambique ... Mozambique's healthcare system is governed by a framework of laws and policies aimed at protecting public health, promoting equitable care, and regulating medical research. Here's an overview of the key legal instruments shaping healthcare in the country:
🏛️ Key Healthcare Laws and Policies
1. Law No. 3/2022 – Public Health Protection and Promotion
Enacted in February 2022, this law establishes mechanisms for the protection and promotion of human health, focusing on disease prevention and control, as well as addressing public health threats and risks. It applies to public administration bodies, institutions, citizens, and other entities contributing to health promotion and disease control, regardless of their social, economic status, or political and religious beliefs. The law emphasizes environmental health risks, including water pollution, air pollution, and the raising of animals in ways that pose risks to public health. It repeals the previous Law No. 8/82, which dealt with crimes against public health . (Law No. 3/2022 establishing mechanisms for the protection and promotion of health, prevention and control of diseases, as well as threats and risks to Public Health. | InforMEA, Law No. 3/2022 establishing mechanisms for the protection and promotion of health, prevention and control of diseases, as well as threats and risks to Public Health. | UNEP Law and Environment Assistance Platform)
2. Resolution No. 13/2021 – National Health Policy and Strategy
Approved in April 2021, this resolution outlines the National Health Policy and its implementation strategy. The policy aims to improve the health conditions of all Mozambicans through a system that recognizes, trains, and coordinates all stakeholders based on principles such as solidarity, ethics, respect for diversity, humanization, professionalism, and commitment. Specific objectives include stimulating health promotion, adopting gender-sensitive health practices, offering better services at all levels, promoting education and training in health promotion, conducting research, and aligning public policies with national and international health agendas . (Resolution No. 13/2021 approving the Health Policy and the Strategy for its Implementation. | UNEP Law and Environment Assistance Platform)
3. Law No. 6/2023 – Human Health Research Law
Enacted in June 2023, this law defines the principles and establishes the legal framework for human health research in Mozambique. It applies to all individuals conducting human health research within the country. The law aims to regulate research activities, promote compliance with applicable principles and standards, encourage the development of scientific production and health technologies, foster national and international collaboration in health research, and strengthen the incorporation of scientific evidence into health policy formulation . (Law No. 6/2023 on Human Health Research Law. | UNEP Law and Environment Assistance Platform)
🏥 Healthcare System Overview
Mozambique's healthcare system is characterized by a mix of public and private providers, with the public sector being the primary source of healthcare services. The National Health Service (SNS) operates a network of health units, including health posts, district hospitals, and central hospitals. However, the system faces challenges such as limited resources, workforce shortages, and infrastructure deficits, particularly in rural areas. These challenges have led to strikes by healthcare professionals advocating for better working conditions and compensation . (Mozambique: New draft law for the National Health System approved | Club of Mozambique)
💼 Health Insurance Landscape
Health insurance is not legally mandated for employers in Mozambique, but many employers offer health insurance plans as part of their employee benefits packages. These plans can be fully or partially subsidized and are often provided to address the limitations of the public healthcare system. The private insurance industry is regulated by the Mozambican Insurance Institute (Instituto Nacional de Seguros - INAS), which establishes guidelines and ensures the solvency of insurance providers . (Employee Benefits in Mozambique)
🧒 Child and Infant Health Policy
The National Infant Health Policy, established in December 2006, marks a transition from centralized programs to an integrated and comprehensive approach for providing infant and child health services at all levels. The policy aims to promote the health of newborns and children, reduce child and youth mortality, and ensure the provision of quality services at the community level, in primary care, and in reference institutions. It emphasizes the integration and coordination of multisectoral efforts to address the determinants affecting children's health . (National Infant Health Policy in Mozambique, December 2006. | InforMEA, National Infant Health Policy in Mozambique, December 2006. | UNEP Law and Environment Assistance Platform)
RELATED Blog
0 comments