Egyptian Health Minister Khalid Abdel Ghaffar led a meeting on Saturday, November 7, 2026, to discuss accelerating the implementation of a comprehensive health insurance system across various governorates. The meeting was attended by Ahmed Saad Al-Shazly, advisor to the President for financial affairs, representatives from the Ministries of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, the Health Care Authority, and other relevant parties. This meeting follows up on the recommendations and outcomes of the "Egypt 2026" forum, which have become presidential directives to expedite the completion of the insurance system in the second-phase governorates.
The meeting reviewed the planning, executive, and financial status of the second phase until 2030 and tracked the implementation rates of projects according to set timelines. Minister Abdel Ghaffar emphasized the importance of adhering to the targeted execution and operation dates, stressing the need for continuous coordination among concerned parties to ensure rapid completion. He directed that challenges facing the system be addressed in coordination with relevant authorities to prevent any impact on the planned timelines.
The meeting discussed the timeline for operating the second phase from 2025 to 2030 and the health planning for the targeted governorates, including Minya, North Sinai, Matruh, Kafr El Sheikh, and Damietta. This includes the health needs of each governorate and the number of beds expected to enter service according to the executive status of ongoing projects. The possibility of including Alexandria governorate in the plan was also considered.
Minister Abdel Ghaffar followed up on the executive status of hospital projects, family medicine units, and health centers in the second-phase governorates. He directed that the implementation rates of infrastructure works be monitored and that the readiness of facilities be ensured according to approved standards. He also emphasized the follow-up of necessary medical equipment to ensure the technical and operational readiness of these facilities before they enter service.
The minister stressed the importance of continuous periodic follow-up of different implementation axes and enhancing coordination among all concerned parties to ensure the achievement of targets according to set timelines and at the highest levels of efficiency in providing health services. This comprehensive health insurance system aims to expand the availability of health care services to citizens and improve their level.
According to Dr. Hussam Abdel Ghaffar, the official spokesperson for the Ministry of Health and Population, the meeting reviewed the financial and executive aspects of implementing the comprehensive health insurance system. The goal is to provide integrated health care services to all citizens, improving the quality and efficiency of health services across different governorates.
The implementation of the comprehensive health insurance system in Egypt is a key step towards achieving universal health coverage and improving the health and well-being of the Egyptian population. The system aims to provide financial protection to citizens against health-related expenses and ensure access to essential health services. The Ministry of Health and Population is working closely with relevant stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of the system.
Key points
- Egypt's Health Minister leads meeting to accelerate comprehensive health insurance implementation nationwide.
- Meeting reviews planning, executive, and financial status of second phase until 2030.
- System aims to expand health care services to citizens and improve their level.
