Egypt's Matrouh governorate prepares to join universal health insurance system

CAIRO – 27 November 2024: Matrouh Governorate is preparing to join Egypt’s Universal Health Insurance System as part of the initiative's second phase. This integration follows the completion of several major upgrades to hospitals, healthcare units, and service outlets across the governorate.

The project aims to enhance medical infrastructure, recruit specialized professionals, and provide state-of-the-art medical equipment and facilities, ensuring the readiness of Matrouh’s healthcare system to deliver comprehensive services.

As part of this preparation, the governorate has undertaken extensive renovations at key medical facilities. These include the development and expansion of Matrouh General Hospital and the Cardiology Center, at an estimated cost of LE1 billion. These upgrades are being implemented to ensure that the facilities meet international health standards and improve the quality of services provided to both residents and visitors.

Recently, the Chest and Fever Hospitals in Marsa Matrouh have undergone significant modernization. The Chest Hospital, covering an area of 10,815 square meters, now includes 69 beds, six intensive care beds, and six isolation beds, alongside new outpatient clinics, respiratory care units, advanced laboratories, and training halls. This facility is equipped with cutting-edge medical devices, including PCR labs, bacteriology labs, and imaging systems.

The Fever Hospital has been rebuilt across an area of 2,250 square meters. It features 20 inpatient beds, five ICU beds, dialysis machines, and fully renovated outpatient services. The hospital is equipped with a modern oxygen supply network, fire safety systems, and enhanced medical tools, including ventilators, isolation beds, and diagnostic devices. Both hospitals are in the final stages of preparation, with technical tests underway and full operations expected to begin shortly.

In addition to these projects, plans are in motion for the comprehensive redevelopment of Matrouh General Hospital. This includes the construction of five new administrative buildings and the integration of the neighboring ambulance station to expand the hospital’s capacity.

Furthermore, the governorate is set to construct its first psychiatric hospital in Alam El-Roum and to advance operations at Ras El-Hekma Emergency and Trauma Hospital, which will specialize in general and orthopedic surgeries. The latter project also involves the establishment of a modern dialysis unit and on-site accommodations for medical staff.

These efforts align with Egypt’s national strategy to enhance healthcare services across all regions. Governor Khaled Shoaib stressed the significance of these developments as part of the state’s comprehensive plan to improve public services and ensure equitable access to quality healthcare for all citizens.

By integrating Matrouh into the Universal Health Insurance System, the governorate aims to provide a robust and modern healthcare network that addresses the needs of its population and strengthens its position as a key service hub in northwest Egypt.