This Wednesday’s “Vamos Falar de Saúde” program brought to the center of the debate a topic that is often invisible, but crucial: the challenges of planning and statistics in the health sector. The guest, Dr. Elizabeth José, Head of the Planning, Statistics and Human Resources Department of the Huíla Provincial Health Office, began by emphasizing that behind every consultation, diagnosis, or medical intervention lies a complex mechanism of management and organization. The department she leads plays a strategic role, coordinating human resources, assets, and the implementation of public policies, in direct connection with the Provincial Health Directorate.

Among the main challenges, she highlighted:

• The shortage of qualified professionals
• High absenteeism, particularly in rural areas

The difficulty in retaining staff in remote areas continues to be influenced by cultural factors and the limited prospects for career progression. In response, the Executive has reinforced incentives, such as isolation allowances, to attract and retain professionals in these regions.

In a sign of commitment to the future, the existence of a specialized center serving the provinces of Huíla and Namibe was highlighted, with 114 professionals currently in training in crucial areas such as pediatrics, community health, medical-surgical specialties, and clinical analysis.

In terms of services, the province has 317 health units, including 6 provincial hospitals, demonstrating a significant network, although pressured by increasing demand.

The final message was clear: improving the health system is a shared responsibility. Users must take an active role, utilizing the available complaint and dialogue channels to contribute to building more efficient, humane services that better meet the needs of the population.