ICRC scales up support for Afghan health system

KABUL (Pajhwok): The ICRC claims it has initiated concrete measures to save lives and stop the inhibition of health services in Afghanistan.

“Through the Hospital Resilience Project (HRP), we support 28 regional, provincial and teaching hospitals with the capacity to hold 5,725 beds,” it said on Monday..

A statement from the humanitarian organisation said the support included the payment of salaries of around 10,000 health workers and running costs.

“This enables hospitals to buy fuel to run their ambulances, ensure power continuity and provide food for patients,” the statement added.

According to the ICRC press release, it also includes the provision of much-needed medical supplies to overcome the disruption of treatment of patients.

Supporting nursing schools and teaching hospitals is essential to secure the futures of thousands of female health workers and the future of the health system for the people of Afghanistan.

Access to health care remains a major concern for a vast majority of Afghans, with thousands of health facilities shut or not functioning.

Given the ongoing economic crisis in the country, most people can no longer afford treatment at private clinics anymore or travel to neighbouring countries.

pr/mud