EGYPT—Egypt’s Ministry of Health and Population has issued 289,590 treatment decisions at state expense, amounting to a total cost of EGP 1.713 billion (US$36.19 million) in April.

These treatment decisions covered a wide range of medical specialities, including blood diseases, oncology, surgery, gynaecology, internal medicine, nose, ear, urology, and bones, as well as skin and neurological diseases.

This extensive coverage reflects the Ministry’s commitment to providing comprehensive healthcare services to the population.

In his address, Hossam Abdel Ghaffar, the official spokesperson for the Ministry of Health and Population, noted that the total number of beneficiaries of the state-funded treatment decisions reached 276,573 citizens.

He highlighted that these efforts are part of a broader initiative to simplify procedures and ensure that citizens have access to integrated medical services.

Abdel Ghaffar emphasized that the Ministry is dedicated to reducing the barriers that citizens face in obtaining necessary medical treatments, thereby enhancing the overall healthcare experience.

To further streamline the process, the Ministry has employed advanced technology solutions. Abdel Ghaffar noted that 473 cases were reviewed using video conference technology.

This innovative approach allows for the facilitation of procedures and the issuance of treatment decisions without requiring patients to visit the headquarters of the General Administration of Specialized Medical Councils.

This initiative significantly reduces the burden on patients, particularly those who might face difficulties traveling to the headquarters, ensuring that they receive timely medical attention without undue hardship.

In addition to these measures, Abdel Ghaffar highlighted the Ministry’s ongoing efforts to support individuals with disabilities through the integrated services card.

As part of the Ministry’s strategy to care for “people of determination,” a medical examination was conducted for 31,630 applicants for the integrated services card during April.

This card is crucial in providing people with disabilities access to necessary medical and social services, ensuring they receive the support they need.

Furthermore, the number of medical examination committees for people with disabilities and special needs has increased to 511 nationwide.

This expansion is a testament to the Ministry’s dedication to addressing the needs of this vulnerable population, ensuring that they have access to the necessary evaluations and services to improve their quality of life.

On his part, Mohamed Zidan, Director of the General Administration of Specialized Medical Councils, elaborated on the types of disabilities that qualify for the integrated services card.

 These include cases of multi-limb amputation or amputation of one limb, quadriplegia, cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, and polio affecting one or more limbs. This detailed classification ensures that those most in need receive the appropriate support and services.

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