Lesotho health care sector is primarily administered by the Health Service Areas (HSA). Each HSA has got a central hospital. The central hospital looks after the health problems of people living in a number of Lesotho villages. There are village health centers that have medical practitioners to take care of the patient. Local clinics are also playing an important role in immunization.
Lesotho health care service is further enhanced by training the community health workers of the different villages of Lesotho. A number of international organizations and public and private bodies have been providing financial aid for the betterment of the heath sector of Lesotho.
The role played by the World Health Organization (WHO) in the development of the health care system in Lesotho is commendable. The key roles of WHO are:
- Planning and management of health services in Lesotho
- Formulating family health programs
- Controlling AIDS
- Developing human resources
The overall contribution made by various sectors has led to the control of dreaded disease like polio. The three district hospitals of Lesotho located at Berea, Mokhotlong and Qacha's Nek and other general and military hospital have been trying to set a high health standard in Lesotho.
One of the best health services is provided by the Maseru Private Hospital at Thetsane. It has an emergency unit and maternity unit where qualified doctors from Bloemfontein, South Africa, pay visit.
Lesotho Flying Doctor Service is very popular which provides emergency services to the remotest areas of Lesotho. A team of medical practitioners visit these areas by Cessna 206 single engine planes. These planes are equipped with stretchers and first aid kits. For emergency ambulance service in Lesotho, one has to dial 121.
The tourists are required to carry a yellow fever certificate if they are coming from an infected area. Vaccinations for Hepatitis A, typhoid and polio are also recommended.
