PRIME Minister Kassim Majaliwa has called for the elimination of barriers that prevent patients from East African Community (EAC) member states from accessing medical services within the bloc.

This, according to him, will help boost regional economy and promote the growth of medical tourism.

He made the call in Dar es Salaam yesterday during the launch of the 12th annual East Africa Healthcare Federation (EAHF) Conference.

The PM said that EAC member countries have made significant investments in the health sector and reduced the costs associated with sending patients abroad for treatment.

“Currently, very few patients need to travel outside our countries for medical care as almost all diseases can now be treated within East Africa,” Majaliwa said.

The PM also called on healthcare investors to consider investing in Tanzania. He noted that the government has established investor-friendly policies, particularly in the health sector to address the high demand for quality medical services in the country.

“We welcome all investors interested in the health sector. We have favourable policies, robust laws and regulations. The need for investment in healthcare is substantial, and we are eager to acquire new technologies for advanced services,” he said.

Majaliwa further encouraged regional health stakeholders to explore strategies for strengthening healthcare systems and developing coordinated approaches to combat diseases.

“This platform should be used to create joint strategies for tackling epidemics, infectious and non-communicable diseases, as well as emerging diseases related to climate change,” he said.

Deputy Minister for Health Dr Godwin Mollel said that government investments at grassroots levels have facilitated early disease detection.

“Referrals abroad have significantly decreased. Previously, nearly all patients arriving at Ocean Road Cancer Institute were often in advanced stages of illness. Thanks to the investments, over 70 percent of patients come with the disease at an early stage,” he said.