Wednesday 08 May
Finance Minister Mohamed Maeet affirmed that providing affordable healthcare services is a fundamental human right recognized across nations worldwide.
He called for international development partners to support
building comprehensive health coverage systems by directing more support and
funds to enhance investment in human development, especially in light of the
severe pressure imposed by global economic challenges on the budgets of various
countries, including emerging markets.
During a panel discussion on “Health Coverage for Everyone”, at
the World Bank and IMF Spring Meetings in Washington, the minister emphasized that
Egypt is taking great paces to establish a strong comprehensive health insurance
system, despite the economic challenges and financial pressures. He pointed out
that this system aims to safeguard all the citizens from health or financial
risks.
He added that we are working to build up large financial reserves to ensure financial sustainability and the ability to provide healthcare services.
He noted that the Egyptian experience in comprehensive health
coverage is receiving significant attention and support from international
development partners.
It is based on strategic procurement mechanisms for health
services, which enhance competitiveness between the public and private sectors,
and ensure the improvement of quality.
He explained that there are incentives to attract the private
medical sector to provide health care services under the umbrella of the new
system. The state is working to strengthen the capabilities of the private
sector, so that it leads the comprehensive health coverage system, pointing out
that we are studying cooperation with major non-profit institutions and civil
society associations that provide quality healthcare services.
During his address, the minister emphasized the potential of “telemedicine” and digital technologies in advancing comprehensive health insurance services in the next stage.
