Amman, Oct. 16 (Petra) -- Minister of Health Ibrahim Bdour underlined that despite economic challenges and limited resources, Jordan has remained steadfast in fulfilling its humanitarian and health obligations toward neighboring countries, bearing the burden of regional displacement, providing advanced medical services to refugees, establishing field hospitals, and receiving patients from the Gaza Strip.

Speaking at the 72nd Session of the WHO Regional Committee for the Eastern Mediterranean, which kicked off on October 15 in Cairo with the participation of health ministers and representatives from regional health institutions, Bdour said the meetings address key health challenges, including strengthening health systems, expanding immunization programs, and tackling the health impacts of climate change.

He noted that the Syrian crisis, which began in 2011, tested the resilience and adaptability of Jordan’s health system, as the Kingdom hosted hundreds of thousands of refugees, placing immense pressure on healthcare facilities, especially in the northern governorates.

Bdour added that Jordan adopted a policy of integrating refugees into the national health system rather than creating parallel structures, reflecting its commitment to equality and fairness in service provision.

He also highlighted Jordan’s response to the health crisis in Gaza through the deployment of field hospitals, medical missions, and multiple initiatives, including the Jordanian Medical Corridor, which has enabled the transfer and treatment of wounded and ill patients in Jordanian hospitals.

So far, Jordan has received 12 groups of patients from Gaza, including complex cases in cardiac surgery, oncology, trauma care, and chronic diseases, he said.

According to a Ministry of Health statement issued Thursday, the session, which continues through Friday, focuses on five key technical areas, foremost among them supporting health system recovery in conflict-affected regions.

The agenda also includes reducing the number of unvaccinated children, integrating palliative care into health services, enhancing laboratory safety, and developing a regional framework to address the health effects of climate change.

Participants are also reviewing progress reports on priority health issues such as breast cancer, health governance, access to medicines, healthcare workforce support, and substance abuse prevention.

//Petra// AO

16/10/2025 13:52:22