Amman, Aug 23 (Petra) – His Royal Highness Prince El Hassan bin Talal, Chairman of the Higher Council for Science and Technology (HCST), on Saturday inaugurated the Fourth Jordanian Women Physicians Conference under the theme "Unlocking Future Healthcare Horizons: Train, Retain, Reform," held in collaboration with the Royal Colleges of Physicians and Surgeons in London, Edinburgh, and England, and the European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL).

In his speech, Prince El Hassan emphasized the importance of focusing on policy-making and governance in managing the health system, calling for a strategic approach that prioritizes policies. He highlighted the need for a single entity responsible for managing, monitoring, and planning health financing across both public and private sectors.

He stressed the necessity of establishing a central body capable of guiding and coordinating the health sector, proposing the reactivation of the Higher Health Council to collectively set health priorities, avoid duplication, and sustain progress.

Prince El Hassan underscored the importance of integrating public health programs through a dedicated fund that monitors crises, implements preventive measures, and plans proactive responses. He also highlighted diversifying funding sources for the medical sector, including through endowments needed in the Islamic world, to empower citizens as active partners in decision-making.

Addressing mental health, Prince El Hassan called for prioritizing it in national healthcare policies, noting the growing number of individuals in need of psychological support amid limited resources allocated to this sector and community care services.

Regarding the situation in Gaza, he said the healthcare sector there is experiencing deliberate destruction alongside all means of survival. "Gaza is witnessing all forms of killing, from the deliberate targeting of children and destruction of housing and shelters to acts approaching genocide. Yet, this must not diminish our ability to think independently, analyze, and respond responsibly with wisdom and awareness," he said. He added that the events in Gaza and the West Bank will not remain isolated, calling for joint, independent, and logical analysis of developments.

Jordan University President Nathir Obaidat highlighted that the conference goes beyond exchanging medical knowledge, reflecting the values of dignity, compassion, and hope inherent in medicine. He described the academic partnership with the Royal Colleges as a bridge of trust and solidarity that broadens professional development opportunities for Jordanian doctors. Dr. Obaidat added that medicine transcends borders in service of patients and humanity, praising Jordanian women doctors for balancing their humanitarian mission with family and social responsibilities, serving as role models for future generations.

Maisam Akroush, President of the Pan Arab Women Physicians Association (PAWPA), described the conference as a landmark for the health sector, addressing key scientific and administrative issues including medical advancements, leadership, medical tourism, artificial intelligence, and crisis resilience. She said holding the conference in Amman, "the heart of Arab progress and medical innovation," reflects Jordan’s growing role in advancing healthcare and empowering women in medicine, while reaffirming solidarity with the Palestinian people in Gaza.

Mumtaz Patel, President of the Royal College of Physicians in London, stressed the importance of fostering growth and innovation in the medical field and supporting the next generation of doctors through knowledge and skill sharing.

Mais Halaseh, PAWPA Secretary-General, noted that the participation of Jordanian university students strengthens the conference’s mission by preparing the next generation to carry forward expertise and knowledge for a brighter future.

The conference also honored doctors in Gaza who continue their humanitarian work despite harsh conditions and limited resources, citing their courage as a shining example of the highest values of medical duty.

//Petra// AF

23/08/2025 22:18:53