Phnom Penh (FN), Dec. 10 – Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet instructed the Ministry of Health to tighten the licensing of private health sector operations, speaking on Tuesday (Dec. 10) during a groundbreaking for the University of Health Sciences Hospital in Phnom Penh.

"I urged the Ministry of Health to pay close attention on hospitals, particularly in the private sector, to ensure adherence to the code of conduct, responsibility, and professional ethics. Licensing must be managed clearly. In the past, the Ministry of Health has conducted investigations and closed facilities where necessary. We need to review, enforce, and uphold the law together because health is vital and must be clearly defined,” the premier underscored.

Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet also recalled that, during a recent meeting with the Supreme Advisory Council, citizens requested the Ministry of Health to provide clearer explanations regarding the levels of healthcare services available. Some facilities are classified as consulting clinics but offer accommodation and treatment services beyond their approved scope. The Ministry of Health must clarify these distinctions and inform the public accordingly.

On the occasion, Samdech Thipadei highlighted the need to strengthen local healthcare facilities, stressing that public health must be prioritised through proper management of food safety and medication quality. He commended ongoing efforts by various ministries and institutions to address these issues.

Additionally, Prime Minister Hun Manet urged the Ministry of Health to ensure a consistent supply of quality medicine to hospitals and uphold the health code of conduct and professional ethics. He called for modernising consultations, treatments, and surgeries in provincial areas, recommending that the Ministry of Health collaborate with the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications to enhance medical services for timely and effective care.

Samdech Thipadei outlined four key areas for expanding the health sector: infrastructure, modern medical equipment, quality medicine, and skilled healthcare professionals. He expressed his vision for health posts, centres, and hospitals to be equipped with appropriate buildings, medicines, modern technology, and highly capable doctors.
=FRESH NEWS