Algerian Health Minister Mohamed Meraoui visited Tizi Ouzou on September 1, where he acknowledged that the registration of new healthcare structures in the past was often driven by "populism" rather than scientific study. He expressed regret for this state of affairs, emphasizing the need for a more balanced and equitable healthcare coverage across the region. Meraoui's visit aimed to assess the current state of healthcare in the wilaya and outline plans for improvement.
During a press conference at the Tizi Ouzou Anti-Cancer Center (CAC), Meraoui revealed that the wilaya has 290 healthcare rooms and 59 polyclinics across 67 communes, but noted that some communes lack adequate healthcare coverage. He announced plans to develop a local healthcare policy that takes into account the specific needs of each region. The minister also emphasized the importance of a scientific approach to healthcare planning, rather than simply responding to popular demand.
Meraoui expressed dissatisfaction with the current state of the healthcare sector nationwide, citing both positive and negative aspects. He highlighted the need for humanization of healthcare services and criticized the disparity in behavior between public and private sector healthcare professionals. The minister praised the CAC's facilities and services, announcing that additional services will be gradually introduced, making it a national healthcare hub.
The minister addressed concerns over medication shortages, announcing the establishment of a vigilance committee to monitor the situation. He claimed that the current program is sufficient to meet national hospital and pharmacy needs, although some private pharmacies have reported shortages. Meraoui attributed these shortages to certain practices, such as monopolization of medication supplies, and vowed to take measures to address the issue.
Meraoui also discussed the issue of violence against healthcare professionals in hospitals, denouncing the phenomenon and outlining measures to improve security. These include strengthening security personnel, enhancing emergency teams, and establishing a care network that encourages patients to use local healthcare facilities. The minister aims to reduce pressure on hospitals and improve the quality of care.
The minister reported that Algeria has made progress in reducing maternal mortality rates, with 57.7 deaths per 100,000 births. He acknowledged that every death is regrettable and emphasized the importance of a 2018-2019 initiative to improve prenatal care. Meraoui noted that investigations and measures are ongoing to address any shortcomings in this area.
During his visit, Meraoui also attended the start of the new school year at the Mouloud Feraoun middle school, where he gave a speech and participated in the inaugural lesson on the country's political situation. However, his visit was disrupted by protests from some residents of Draa Ben Khedda, who voiced their concerns as the ministerial convoy departed the CAC.
Key points
- Algerian Health Minister Mohamed Meraoui has pledged to improve healthcare coverage in Tizi Ouzou and nationwide.
- Meraoui acknowledged shortcomings in healthcare services, including inadequate facilities and medication shortages.
- The minister outlined plans to address these issues, including a scientific approach to healthcare planning and measures to improve security and reduce maternal mortality rates.
