Anambra Pushes Expanded Private-Sector Role in HIV, TB, Malaria Service Delivery
By Chizoba Njaka
Anambra State has advocated for a stronger role for the private sector in delivering HIV, Tuberculosis and Malaria services, as the State participated in a two-day Technical Assistance Workshop on the Alternative Delivery Model (ADM) in Abuja.
The workshop, which also brought together representatives from Lagos, Kwara and Gombe States, was supported by the Global Fund through the Society for Family Health (SFH) and focused on the TASAD Project.
The initiative seeks to establish sustainable private-sector access to HIV prevention, Tuberculosis and Malaria services while developing practical approaches capable of complementing the existing public healthcare delivery system.
Anambra was represented by the Anambra State AIDS Control Agency (ANSACA), alongside a delegation from the State Ministry of Health comprising the Director of Public Health, the State Programme Coordinator for HIV/AIDS and STIs, and the State Malaria Programme Coordinator.
Speaking at the workshop, the Anambra representative noted that the State provides a strong environment for expanding the Alternative Delivery Model, particularly because of its commercial orientation and the important role already played by private healthcare providers.
The representative stressed that expanding access to HIV, TB and malaria services requires bringing care closer to the people, particularly at locations where they live, work and ordinarily seek healthcare. The private sector, therefore, was described as a critical partner in achieving sustainable healthcare delivery in the State.
The delegation also called for an Alternative Delivery Model that is inclusive, tailored to the specific needs of Anambra and designed for long-term sustainability. Key areas highlighted included effective coordination, quality assurance, availability of essential commodities, reliable data reporting and stronger linkages between private healthcare providers and the public health system.
According to the delegation, the ADM provides Anambra with an opportunity to diversify healthcare service delivery, extend services beyond conventional health facilities, improve public-private collaboration and strengthen the sustainability of the State’s response to HIV, Tuberculosis and Malaria.
The technical engagement was described as valuable, providing an opportunity for participants to exchange knowledge and identify practical strategies for improving service delivery.
Anambra State is expected to build on the lessons and opportunities from the workshop by translating them into practical interventions capable of further strengthening healthcare delivery across the State.