The healthcare system in Béjaïa, Algeria, faces numerous challenges, including outdated and inadequate facilities, as well as a shortage of medical staff and equipment. Patients often receive subpar care, and many are forced to seek private medical attention at a high cost. The Khellil Amrane hospital in Béjaïa struggles to manage its daily influx of patients, with tensions frequently arising between hospital staff and patient companions.
In an effort to address these concerns, the Wali of Béjaïa, Ahmed Maabed, conducted a surprise nighttime visit to the Khellil Amrane hospital and the Akboul Ali hospital. During his visit, he took note of the various shortcomings at these facilities. Despite the long-standing demands of the local population for a new hospital, Maabed focused on providing immediate solutions, instructing hospital administrators to improve patient care and provide a more welcoming environment.
According to the Wali's office, the visits aimed to identify areas for improvement at the two hospitals, which will receive additional human and material resources to enhance patient care. Further meetings are planned with healthcare officials to discuss the challenges and shortcomings observed, with the goal of finding solutions. However, the Wali's comments did not address the long-held aspirations of the local population for a new hospital.
The project to build a new university hospital center (CHU) in Béjaïa appears to have stalled. The former Wali of Béjaïa, Hamou Ahmed Touhami, had described the hopes for a new hospital as "dreams." The realization of this project now seems increasingly unlikely. Additionally, the construction of the cancer treatment center in Amizour, which was initially announced in 2011 and reaffirmed in 2017, has yet to commence due to ongoing administrative issues.
Local residents and patients express frustration with the current state of healthcare services in Béjaïa. Many feel that their concerns have been ignored, and they continue to face difficulties in accessing quality medical care. The situation has led to increased tensions between hospital staff and patient companions, further exacerbating the challenges faced by the healthcare system.
In response to these concerns, authorities have pledged to address the immediate needs of the hospitals and improve patient care. The Wali's office has stated that efforts will be made to provide additional resources and support to the healthcare facilities, with the aim of enhancing the overall quality of care provided to patients.
The effectiveness of these measures remains to be seen, as the underlying issues facing the healthcare system in Béjaïa are complex and multifaceted. The local population remains hopeful that meaningful improvements will be made, but many fear that the promises made by authorities may not be fulfilled.
Key points
- Authorities inspect Béjaïa hospitals, vow to improve patient care
- Healthcare system in Béjaïa faces numerous challenges, including outdated facilities and staff shortages
- Project to build new university hospital center appears to have stalled
