Health experts in Tanzania are advocating for the formal recognition of Family Medicine within the public service framework to address systemic challenges in the healthcare sector.

The push gained traction during the Benjamin William Mkapa Legacy Summit in Dar es Salaam, where Aga Khan University emphasized the role of family physicians in primary healthcare.Family doctors, trained in diverse medical disciplines, can manage common illnesses and reduce unnecessary referrals to overcrowded hospitals.However, the specialty remains unrecognized in Tanzania's public service, limiting access to private institutions.

Experts argue that integrating Family Medicine would improve continuity of care, particularly for non-communicable diseases, and strengthen the health system.

Aga Khan University is actively engaging policymakers to expand the role of family physicians, who can provide holistic care and reduce the burden on tertiary hospitals.

The initiative aligns with Tanzania's epidemiological shift toward chronic diseases, requiring long-term management rather than repeated specialist visits.

Recognizing Family Medicine is seen as critical for rural areas with limited specialist access, as well as for fostering innovation and leadership in healthcare delivery.