Reported by: S. Ernest.
Date: 19th February, 2025.
Lusaka, Zambia.
In a bid to foster accurate and ethical health reporting, the Ministry of Health has reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with the media through an open-door policy. This initiative aims to enhance the quality of health journalism and improve public access to credible medical information.
During a two-day Media Consultative Meeting on Health and Medical Reporting for Lusaka-based journalists, held at Mulungushi International Conference Centre, health officials underscored the importance of responsible reporting in shaping public health awareness.
Lusaka Provincial Health Director, Dr. Simulyamana Choonga, emphasized the critical role of the media in highlighting stakeholders’ efforts in the health sector and disseminating accurate health information.
He urged journalists to invest in specialized health reporting to ensure the public makes informed decisions about healthcare services.
Dr. Choonga further called on journalists to uphold ethical standards in medical reporting, particularly in maintaining patient confidentiality and verifying information before publication to prevent misinformation. He noted that well-trained journalists are better equipped to handle complex health issues with accuracy and professionalism.
Additionally, he encouraged medical experts to engage with the media and provide guidance on medical reporting, recognizing that health journalism often requires expert interpretation.
In gracing the event, Permanent Secretary for Donor Coordination, Dr. George Sinyangwe, reaffirmed the Ministry’s dedication to fostering a strong partnership with the media.
He commended journalists for their ongoing efforts in disseminating health information and acknowledged their role in bridging the gap between the health sector and the public.
Dr. Sinyangwe highlighted that the Ministry has consistently worked alongside the media to ensure effective public communication on health matters.
The media engagement, facilitated by the Ministry of Health, aims to boost public awareness, promote health literacy, and strengthen information dissemination.
The workshop also brings together health professionals from various medical and tertiary health facilities in Lusaka District, fostering a collaborative approach to improving health reporting standards.
Picture Credit: MOH
The Agency
