World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean, Dr. Hanan Balkhy, praised the efforts of member states in supporting Gazan patients, with a special mention of Qatar’s significant role. She highlighted the challenges in establishing access to the region, particularly for evacuating injured individuals from Gaza. Despite these difficulties, she commended Qatar for its exceptional efforts in receiving hundreds of patients and their families from Gaza. Dr. Balkhy shared heartwarming stories of recovery during her visit to the Al Thumama complex in Doha, where critically injured patients are not only receiving medical care but also integrating into the community.
During a press conference in Doha, Dr. Balkhy expressed her gratitude to all member states that have taken in patients evacuated from Gaza, with a special thanks to Qatar. She mentioned visiting the Al Thumama complex, where over 900 patients and their families have been received by Qatar. Dr. Balkhy emphasized the need for systematic support and collaboration with countries relying on WHO for patient evacuations, highlighting Qatar’s commitment to establishing robust mechanisms for ongoing healthcare assistance to those affected by the crisis in Gaza.
The press conference took place following the 71st session of the Regional Committee for the Eastern Mediterranean, hosted by Qatar from October 14 to 17, 2024. Dr. Balkhy highlighted the importance of the Regional Committee as WHO’s main governing body in the Eastern Mediterranean. She mentioned that the session was held in the context of emergencies impacting half of the countries in the Region, with lives being lost every minute. The annual session provides an essential opportunity for leaders and policymakers to discuss key issues and collaborate with partner organizations and WHO experts.
Dr. Balkhy presented WHO’s major strategic plans for work in the region, including a new regional strategic operational plan and three flagship initiatives. The strategic operational plan will guide the organization’s work with countries for the next four years, focusing on expanding access to essential medicines, vaccines, and medical products, improving the health workforce, and addressing substance use through public health action. Dr. Balkhy emphasized the importance of these initiatives in accelerating progress in critical areas and ensuring better healthcare outcomes for the region.
Overall, Dr. Balkhy praised Qatar for its significant efforts in supporting Gazan patients and highlighted the challenges in accessing the region for evacuations. She expressed gratitude to member states for their support and collaboration with WHO in providing healthcare assistance to those affected by the crisis in Gaza. The press conference following the Regional Committee session provided an opportunity to discuss key issues and present WHO’s strategic plans for work in the Eastern Mediterranean, focusing on improving access to essential healthcare services and addressing critical health issues in the region.
