WHO praises Qatar’s support for Gazan patients

DOHA: World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean Dr. Hanan Balkhy praised the efforts of member states in support...

DOHA: World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean Dr. Hanan Balkhy praised the efforts of member states in supporting Gazan patients, particularly highlighting Qatar’s significant role, addressing a press conference yesterday in Doha.

Dr. Balkhy highlighted the significant challenges in establishing access to the region, particularly for the evacuation of injured individuals from Gaza, stating, “We face major challenges in securing unimpeded access.” Despite these difficulties, she commended Qatar for its exceptional efforts in receiving hundreds of patients and their families from Gaza. During her visit to the Al Thumama complex in Doha, Dr. Balkhy shared heartwarming stories of recovery, where critically injured patients are not only receiving medical care but are also integrating into the community, with children attending school.

“I would like to thank all member states that have taken patients evacuated from Gaza, including Qatar. Indeed, I had the opportunity to visit Al Thumama complex. Qatar has received over 900 patients and their families. At the Thumama complex we were able to visit three families, interact with them and listen to their stories,” said Dr. Balkhy.

“Qatar has been doing an amazing job. They have also voiced in other meetings on how we can ensure to support in a more systematic way,” she said emphasizing the need for systematic support, she called for enhanced collaboration with countries relying on WHO for patient evacuations, underscoring Qatar’s commitment to establishing robust mechanisms for ongoing healthcare assistance to those affected by the ongoing crisis in Gaza.

Dr. Balkhy was addressing a hybrid press conference following the 71st session of the Regional Committee for the Eastern Mediterranean, which was held from October 14 to 17, 2024, and hosted by Qatar.