Government has commissioned a refurbished Stroke Unit at the University Teaching Hospital (UTH) Adult Hospital, targeted at decentralising specialised stroke care services and improving patient outcomes in the country.

During the same event, Ministry of Health Permanent Secretary for Technical Services, Kennedy Lishimpi who was represented by the Ministry’s Market Lead Monitoring and Evaluation, Clive Gosa, also launched a Client Feedback Initiative that promotes dialogue for improvement of health services.

“Our country has continued to record an increase in stroke cases, particularly among younger people, mainly due to non-communicable diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, unhealthy lifestyles, and late health-seeking behaviour,” said Dr Lishimpi.

The Permanent Secretary further noted that a responsive and effective complaint handling system is a cornerstone of transparency, professionalism, and accountability in healthcare delivery that provides clients an opportunity to express their concerns and share their experiences.

“Patient feedback should never be viewed as criticism, but rather as an opportunity to learn, improve, and build trust between healthcare providers and the communities we serve,” he said.

UTH Adult Hospital Senior Medical Superintendent, Charles Mbewe, highlighted the Stroke unit’s contribution to improved patient outcomes, reduced mortality rates, and better rehabilitation services for stroke patients.