27 dec 2012
Ministry: Swine flu death toll reaches 4 in West Bank
BETHLEHEM (Ma'an) -- Another Palestinian has died of swine flu, bringing the death to four from the H1N1 virus in the West Bank, the Ministry of Health said Wednesday.
Some 160 people have the virus, which has spread in the northern cities of the West Bank, particularly in Jenin, the ministry's general director of primary health care told Ma'an.
The ministry has qualified teams to treat the virus across the West Bank, Assad al-Ramlawi added.
Al-Ramlawi urged ill people, especially those with low immunity, to go to hospital and take the necessary antibiotics.
Some 160 people have the virus, which has spread in the northern cities of the West Bank, particularly in Jenin, the ministry's general director of primary health care told Ma'an.
The ministry has qualified teams to treat the virus across the West Bank, Assad al-Ramlawi added.
Al-Ramlawi urged ill people, especially those with low immunity, to go to hospital and take the necessary antibiotics.
25 dec 2012
Turkish relief material lands in Gaza
GAZA, (PIC)-- A Turkish aid convoy arrived in Gaza Strip on Monday carrying around 70 tons of medical supplies.
Sources in Turkey’s official aid agency TIKA said that the convoy consists of 12 trucks all loaded with needed medical supplies in the coastal enclave.
Mohammed Murtaja, the director of TIKA office in the Strip, said that the agency received a list from the health ministry in Gaza on medicines and medical supplies that are in shortage in the Strip after the Israeli aggression and prepared the convoy accordingly.
He disclosed that TIKA, Turkey's principal development aid agency, was currently studying providing Shuhada Al-Aqsa hospital in central Gaza Strip with dialysis machines. He added that TIKA was also planning to open a center for teaching Turkish language in Gaza.
Sources in Turkey’s official aid agency TIKA said that the convoy consists of 12 trucks all loaded with needed medical supplies in the coastal enclave.
Mohammed Murtaja, the director of TIKA office in the Strip, said that the agency received a list from the health ministry in Gaza on medicines and medical supplies that are in shortage in the Strip after the Israeli aggression and prepared the convoy accordingly.
He disclosed that TIKA, Turkey's principal development aid agency, was currently studying providing Shuhada Al-Aqsa hospital in central Gaza Strip with dialysis machines. He added that TIKA was also planning to open a center for teaching Turkish language in Gaza.
23 dec 2012
Elderly man dies of swine flu, joins four dead earlier
JENIN, (PIC)-- The directorate of health in Jenin city reported a new death from swine flu (H1N1) last night, saying that the patient was an aged man.
Four other Palestinians, including a young girl and a pregnant woman, had died of the same influenza outbreak in the last few days in the West Bank, according to earlier news reports
Spokesman for the Palestinian authority health ministry Tarif Ashour said that more than 40 people in the West Bank have been diagnosed with the disease and admitted to hospitals since its outbreak.
He noted that some swine flu patients were cured and released from the medical centers they were in.
Four other Palestinians, including a young girl and a pregnant woman, had died of the same influenza outbreak in the last few days in the West Bank, according to earlier news reports
Spokesman for the Palestinian authority health ministry Tarif Ashour said that more than 40 people in the West Bank have been diagnosed with the disease and admitted to hospitals since its outbreak.
He noted that some swine flu patients were cured and released from the medical centers they were in.
22 dec 2012
OIC warns of crisis in Gaza due to shortage of medicines
GAZA, (PIC)-- The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has warned of the collapse of Gaza's health sector which continues to suffer shortages of two-thirds of medicines in hospitals and medical centers in the Strip.
The Organization said, in its monthly report monitoring the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip and issued on Saturday, that there is shortage of more than 305 medications out of 478, in addition to the shortage of medical supplies and most of the humanitarian needs.
The report stated that there is an urgent need to provide shelter for the Palestinian citizens whose houses had been destroyed during the Israeli recent war on Gaza.
It called the OIC member states and the humanitarian organizations to prepare a program and an urgent plan to cope with the deteriorating situation in Gaza, particularly in the health sector, and to support the Gaza reconstruction projects.
The OIC has also pointed to the suffering of the residents of the Gaza Strip due to the acute shortage in cooking gas, of more than 50% of the daily requirement, which threatens an imminent humanitarian crisis.
The OIC report revealed that the Israeli occupation authorities have continued to put restrictions on the commercial traffic in and out of the Gaza Strip, through imposing a total ban on the supply of construction materials to the Strip, except for limited quantities for the benefit of international organizations' projects.
The Organization said, in its monthly report monitoring the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip and issued on Saturday, that there is shortage of more than 305 medications out of 478, in addition to the shortage of medical supplies and most of the humanitarian needs.
The report stated that there is an urgent need to provide shelter for the Palestinian citizens whose houses had been destroyed during the Israeli recent war on Gaza.
It called the OIC member states and the humanitarian organizations to prepare a program and an urgent plan to cope with the deteriorating situation in Gaza, particularly in the health sector, and to support the Gaza reconstruction projects.
The OIC has also pointed to the suffering of the residents of the Gaza Strip due to the acute shortage in cooking gas, of more than 50% of the daily requirement, which threatens an imminent humanitarian crisis.
The OIC report revealed that the Israeli occupation authorities have continued to put restrictions on the commercial traffic in and out of the Gaza Strip, through imposing a total ban on the supply of construction materials to the Strip, except for limited quantities for the benefit of international organizations' projects.
15 dec 2012
Israeli hospital refuses to treat Palestinian child with cancer
NAZARETH, (PIC)-- The Israeli Kaplan hospital has expelled a Palestinian girl, Lin Hassan, who has been suffering from cancer in both her kidneys despite her treatment was not completed.
The child's mother said in a statement on Saturday that immediately after her daughter started receiving treatment, she was surprised when the hospital administration informed them of the decision to stop all treatments for Lin.
She said that her child was scheduled to be operated on for the removal of the tumor, but the hospital administration expelled her because the Palestinian Authority did not pay the dues of Lin's previous stay in the Israeli hospital.
Lin's mother confirmed that her daughter's health condition is getting worse after they have returned to their home in the Breij refugee camp in the central Gaza Strip where there is no cure for the little child.
The child's mother said in a statement on Saturday that immediately after her daughter started receiving treatment, she was surprised when the hospital administration informed them of the decision to stop all treatments for Lin.
She said that her child was scheduled to be operated on for the removal of the tumor, but the hospital administration expelled her because the Palestinian Authority did not pay the dues of Lin's previous stay in the Israeli hospital.
Lin's mother confirmed that her daughter's health condition is getting worse after they have returned to their home in the Breij refugee camp in the central Gaza Strip where there is no cure for the little child.
12 dec 2012
Egyptian field hospital in Gaza within six months
GAZA, (PIC)-- An Egyptian field hospital is to be established in the Gaza Strip within the coming six months, the Egyptian health undersecretary Dr. Ahmed Siddik said.
The Egyptian official, who is heading a delegation on a visit to Gaza Strip, was speaking during a meeting with the Palestinian Wafa charitable society on Tuesday.
The Egyptian delegation comprised representatives of a number of medical specialized teams.
Dr. Siddik said that the Egyptian hospital, which would be established in one of the buildings of the Wafa society, would attempt to help upgrade health services in the coastal enclave and at same time extend medical services to people of the Strip.
The Egyptian official, who is heading a delegation on a visit to Gaza Strip, was speaking during a meeting with the Palestinian Wafa charitable society on Tuesday.
The Egyptian delegation comprised representatives of a number of medical specialized teams.
Dr. Siddik said that the Egyptian hospital, which would be established in one of the buildings of the Wafa society, would attempt to help upgrade health services in the coastal enclave and at same time extend medical services to people of the Strip.
5 dec 2012
3 wounded Palestinians from Gaza arrive to Turkey for treatment
ANKARA, (PIC)-- Three wounded Palestinians and their companions arrived to the city of Ankara after leaving the Gaza Strip, transferred by a private ambulance plane belonging to the Turkish Ministry of Health.
The Turkish Foreign Minister, Ahmet Davutoglu, ordered the transfer of the three wounded to Turkey to receive treatment, after he had seen the situations at the Shifa Hospital in Gaza.
The Palestinian patients were received, at the Esenboga airport in the Turkish capital, by the Turkish deputy Minister of Health Wagah Kavkaz.
They are expected to receive the necessary treatment in the Hospital of the Faculty of Medicine at the "Yildirim Beyazit" University.
The Turkish Foreign Minister, Ahmet Davutoglu, ordered the transfer of the three wounded to Turkey to receive treatment, after he had seen the situations at the Shifa Hospital in Gaza.
The Palestinian patients were received, at the Esenboga airport in the Turkish capital, by the Turkish deputy Minister of Health Wagah Kavkaz.
They are expected to receive the necessary treatment in the Hospital of the Faculty of Medicine at the "Yildirim Beyazit" University.
29 nov 2012
Tunisian medical delegation headed by Health Minister reaches Gaza
GAZA, (PIC)-- Tunisian Health Minister, Dr. Abdul-Latif Al-Makky, arrived in the Gaza Strip on Wednesday evening, heading a medical team in addition to the Tunisian Ambassador in Cairo, in solidarity with the people in the Gaza strip.
The visiting Tunisian officials, who brought with them medical supplies to a number of hospitals in Gaza, were welcomed by the Palestinian Health Minister in Gaza, Dr. Mofeed Al-Mkhallalaty.
Al-Mkhallalaty said that this visit shows unity and brotherhood between the Tunisian and the Palestinian people, and that it is also part of the Arab Spring that managed to uproot several dictators.
He added that Tunisia was amongst the first States that sent supplies to the Palestinian people in the first days of the recent Israeli war on Gaza and its people. Tunisia also sent planes to Egypt to transport some of the wounded Palestinians to Tunisian hospitals.
For his part, Makki explained that the Tunisian delegation includes a group of specialist doctors who will stay in the Gaza Strip for several days "to help the Palestinian medical crews in saving the wounded."
He noted that the Tunisian delegation arrived in the Gaza Strip providing ten per cent of the medical aid, which has been asked for by the Health Ministry, stating that, in the coming few days, Tunisian planes will fly to Egypt to transfer more wounded Palestinians to Tunisian hospitals.
The visiting Tunisian officials, who brought with them medical supplies to a number of hospitals in Gaza, were welcomed by the Palestinian Health Minister in Gaza, Dr. Mofeed Al-Mkhallalaty.
Al-Mkhallalaty said that this visit shows unity and brotherhood between the Tunisian and the Palestinian people, and that it is also part of the Arab Spring that managed to uproot several dictators.
He added that Tunisia was amongst the first States that sent supplies to the Palestinian people in the first days of the recent Israeli war on Gaza and its people. Tunisia also sent planes to Egypt to transport some of the wounded Palestinians to Tunisian hospitals.
For his part, Makki explained that the Tunisian delegation includes a group of specialist doctors who will stay in the Gaza Strip for several days "to help the Palestinian medical crews in saving the wounded."
He noted that the Tunisian delegation arrived in the Gaza Strip providing ten per cent of the medical aid, which has been asked for by the Health Ministry, stating that, in the coming few days, Tunisian planes will fly to Egypt to transfer more wounded Palestinians to Tunisian hospitals.
28 nov 2012
Egyptian shipment of medicine to Gaza on Friday
CAIRO, (PIC)-- Two Egyptian relief committees are to send badly needed medicines to the Gaza Strip next Friday to the tune of 1.5 million Egyptian pounds.
The relief and medicine committee in the Egyptian pharmacists syndicate and the relief and the humanitarian relief committee in the Egyptian doctors syndicate have jointly secured the medicines.
Dr. Shaima Al-Sharif, the rapporteur at the relief and medicine committee of the pharmacists syndicate, said on Wednesday that the convoy would send medicines and medical supplies that are in shortage in the coastal enclave.
Another relief convoy is currently being prepared by professional syndicates in Sharqiya governorate in Egypt that would be sent to the Strip on December 7th.
The relief and medicine committee in the Egyptian pharmacists syndicate and the relief and the humanitarian relief committee in the Egyptian doctors syndicate have jointly secured the medicines.
Dr. Shaima Al-Sharif, the rapporteur at the relief and medicine committee of the pharmacists syndicate, said on Wednesday that the convoy would send medicines and medical supplies that are in shortage in the coastal enclave.
Another relief convoy is currently being prepared by professional syndicates in Sharqiya governorate in Egypt that would be sent to the Strip on December 7th.
26 nov 2012
IOA denies treatment for cancer patient
JENIN, (PIC)-- The Israeli occupation authorities (IOA) refused to allow entry of Mazen Eghbari into 1948 occupied Palestine for treatment of cancer.
Local sources in Kufairat village, south west of Jenin, said that Eghbari, 46, was denied permission to enter the 1948 occupied lands despite his worsening health condition.
They said that Eghbari had repeatedly gone to the liaison office to ask for medical treatment permission but was always turned down for security reasons.
The sources said that Eghbari’s request was refused four times, adding that he went to the liaison office after his request to travel to Jordan for treatment was denied.
Cancer patients in the West Bank could only find treatment in either Jordan or the 1948 occupied land.
Local sources in Kufairat village, south west of Jenin, said that Eghbari, 46, was denied permission to enter the 1948 occupied lands despite his worsening health condition.
They said that Eghbari had repeatedly gone to the liaison office to ask for medical treatment permission but was always turned down for security reasons.
The sources said that Eghbari’s request was refused four times, adding that he went to the liaison office after his request to travel to Jordan for treatment was denied.
Cancer patients in the West Bank could only find treatment in either Jordan or the 1948 occupied land.
25 nov 2012
Doctors Worldwide delegation arrives in Gaza
GAZA, (PIC)-- The delegation of Doctors Worldwide organization arrived in the Gaza Strip, which has been experiencing Israeli attacks, on Saturday in a solidarity visit.
The aid group will distribute medical supplies, perform some surgeries, visit a number of hospitals, and oversee the treatment of those wounded during the occupation aggression.
The medical team composed of 11 doctors from various specialties, including urologists, plastic surgeons, neurologists and ophthalmologists, brought with them their various surgical instruments, as well as micro-surgery equipment.
The delegation spokesman, the Turkish doctor "Solomon Kunduz", said in a statement he delivered at the airport in Istanbul before his departure to the Strip, that the Israeli indiscriminate shelling killed about 165 Palestinians and wounded more than 1200 others.
He added that the health institutions in the Strip are not able to meet the growing demands, due to the shortage in the medical materials, as a result of the Israeli blockade imposed on the Gaza Strip.
The delegation is scheduled to spend 12 days in Gaza, and then it will be replaced by another team of volunteer doctors, later on.
The aid group will distribute medical supplies, perform some surgeries, visit a number of hospitals, and oversee the treatment of those wounded during the occupation aggression.
The medical team composed of 11 doctors from various specialties, including urologists, plastic surgeons, neurologists and ophthalmologists, brought with them their various surgical instruments, as well as micro-surgery equipment.
The delegation spokesman, the Turkish doctor "Solomon Kunduz", said in a statement he delivered at the airport in Istanbul before his departure to the Strip, that the Israeli indiscriminate shelling killed about 165 Palestinians and wounded more than 1200 others.
He added that the health institutions in the Strip are not able to meet the growing demands, due to the shortage in the medical materials, as a result of the Israeli blockade imposed on the Gaza Strip.
The delegation is scheduled to spend 12 days in Gaza, and then it will be replaced by another team of volunteer doctors, later on.
25 oct 2012
Closure of Beit Hanoun Crossing Threatens the Lives of Hundreds of Patients in the Gaza Strip
The Palestinian Centre for Human Rights (PCHR) condemns the targeting of the Palestinian customs checkpoint, near Beit Hanoun (Erez) crossing, by Israeli warplanes. As a result of the attack, a Palestinian policeman sustained serious wounds, and damage was caused to surrounding facilities in the area.
PCHR also denounces the Israeli Occupation Forces’ (IOF) closing of the crossing for a few hours, due to which, specific categories of Palestinians were denied travel via the crossing, including the Gaza Strip's patients who have obtained medical referrals to West Bank and/or Israeli hospitals.
According to investigations conducted by PCHR, at approximately 07:15 on Wednesday, 24 October 2012, an Israeli warplane attacked the customs checkpoint "44" of the Ministry of Interior in Gaza, which is approximately 1,700 meters away from Beit Hanoun (Erez) crossing in the northern Gaza Strip. As a result, Hassan Harb Saleh Abu Jabal, 25, a Palestinian policeman from Beit Lahia, sustained critical wounds, while he was on duty.
Moreover, major damage was caused to the electricity network supplying the Gaza Strip with power, and to offices of security services in the area.
At approximately 08:00 on Wednesday, 24 October 2012, IOF closed Beit Hanoun (Erez) crossing and declared the crossing area as a closed military area. Due to that decision, all categories of people who are allowed to travel daily via the crossing, including patients holding medical referrals to be treated in the West Bank and/or Israeli hospitals, were prevented from passing through the crossing.
It should be noted that IOF allowed 12 patients and companions, and 5 traders to travel via the crossing in the early morning before the crossing was closed. However, 28 patients, who obtained permits to travel and receive medical treatment abroad, were prevented from travelling.
Palestinian patients in the Gaza Strip, who suffer from serious illnesses, depend on medical referrals to hospitals abroad for their medical treatment.
This dependence is the result from the inability of the Gaza Strip hospitals to treat these illnesses. Consequently, 30-50 cases are referred to hospitals in Israel or the West Bank, including Jerusalem, daily in order to receive medical treatment or complete their treatment there.
PCHR condemns the continuing Israeli violations against civilians in the Gaza Strip, and:
• Calls for prompt action to exert pressure towards keeping Beit Hanoun (Erez) crossing open and allow the Gaza Strip's patients, who suffer from serious illnesses and hold permits to travel via the crossing, to travel freely and safely in order to receive medical treatment and prevent deterioration of their health conditions;
• Condemns the policy of collective punishment practiced by the Israeli authorities against Palestinian civilians, in addition to the illegal closure imposed on the Gaza Strip for over 5 years now;
• Calls upon the IOF to respect its legal obligations in accordance with the Fourth Geneva Convention 1949, especially to guarantee the entry of medical consignments and food aids and to ensure the freedom of patients' movement in order for them to receive the adequate medical treatment;
• Calls upon the international community, including the High Contracting Parties to the Fourth Geneva Convention, to fulfill their obligations and responsibilities through taking immediate actions towards putting an end to violations of international law committed by IOF against Palestinian civilians, particularly patients who need special protection; and
• Calls for halting the targeting of civilians in the Gaza Strip, who enjoy protection in time of armed conflict and military occupation according to international humanitarian law and international human rights law.
PCHR also denounces the Israeli Occupation Forces’ (IOF) closing of the crossing for a few hours, due to which, specific categories of Palestinians were denied travel via the crossing, including the Gaza Strip's patients who have obtained medical referrals to West Bank and/or Israeli hospitals.
According to investigations conducted by PCHR, at approximately 07:15 on Wednesday, 24 October 2012, an Israeli warplane attacked the customs checkpoint "44" of the Ministry of Interior in Gaza, which is approximately 1,700 meters away from Beit Hanoun (Erez) crossing in the northern Gaza Strip. As a result, Hassan Harb Saleh Abu Jabal, 25, a Palestinian policeman from Beit Lahia, sustained critical wounds, while he was on duty.
Moreover, major damage was caused to the electricity network supplying the Gaza Strip with power, and to offices of security services in the area.
At approximately 08:00 on Wednesday, 24 October 2012, IOF closed Beit Hanoun (Erez) crossing and declared the crossing area as a closed military area. Due to that decision, all categories of people who are allowed to travel daily via the crossing, including patients holding medical referrals to be treated in the West Bank and/or Israeli hospitals, were prevented from passing through the crossing.
It should be noted that IOF allowed 12 patients and companions, and 5 traders to travel via the crossing in the early morning before the crossing was closed. However, 28 patients, who obtained permits to travel and receive medical treatment abroad, were prevented from travelling.
Palestinian patients in the Gaza Strip, who suffer from serious illnesses, depend on medical referrals to hospitals abroad for their medical treatment.
This dependence is the result from the inability of the Gaza Strip hospitals to treat these illnesses. Consequently, 30-50 cases are referred to hospitals in Israel or the West Bank, including Jerusalem, daily in order to receive medical treatment or complete their treatment there.
PCHR condemns the continuing Israeli violations against civilians in the Gaza Strip, and:
• Calls for prompt action to exert pressure towards keeping Beit Hanoun (Erez) crossing open and allow the Gaza Strip's patients, who suffer from serious illnesses and hold permits to travel via the crossing, to travel freely and safely in order to receive medical treatment and prevent deterioration of their health conditions;
• Condemns the policy of collective punishment practiced by the Israeli authorities against Palestinian civilians, in addition to the illegal closure imposed on the Gaza Strip for over 5 years now;
• Calls upon the IOF to respect its legal obligations in accordance with the Fourth Geneva Convention 1949, especially to guarantee the entry of medical consignments and food aids and to ensure the freedom of patients' movement in order for them to receive the adequate medical treatment;
• Calls upon the international community, including the High Contracting Parties to the Fourth Geneva Convention, to fulfill their obligations and responsibilities through taking immediate actions towards putting an end to violations of international law committed by IOF against Palestinian civilians, particularly patients who need special protection; and
• Calls for halting the targeting of civilians in the Gaza Strip, who enjoy protection in time of armed conflict and military occupation according to international humanitarian law and international human rights law.
11 oct 2012
The Palestinian MoH, WHO, and EU Launch Phase Two of the Mental Health Initiative project in West Bank and Gaza
Delegation West Bank Gaza Info said in a press release that on October 10, International Mental Health Day, the Palestinian Ministry of Health and the WHO oPt office launched a three-year $1.5 million project, funded by the European Union, to improve community-based mental health services in the West Bank and Gaza.
The WHO will provide technical support for the project which the Ministry of Health will implement in 48 health facilities in the West Bank and Gaza, in line with the National Mental Health Strategy, 2012-2014. The project also aims to increase patient access by strengthening Palestinian civil society involvement in service provision and in fighting stigma and discrimination.
The WHO and the MoH have worked together over the last decade, most recently in an EU-funded Phase 1 project (2008-2011), to reshape mental health and psycho-social support services from a traditional institutional-based approach to a community-based approach. This EU-funded Phase 2 project builds on this work and emphasizes effective prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of common and severe mental health disorders, and will be implemented across a continuum of care levels: primary assessment and ongoing care in primary health care clinics, specialized and community care in Community Mental Health Centers, acute care units in general hospitals and promoting rehabilitation services in tertiary care facilities.
Major Project Activities 2012-2015
The current project will focus on strengthening primary mental health care as the first level of mental health service provision. The integration of mental health into primary health care will include 28 primary care facilities. 180 doctors and nurses working in these clinics will be trained on mental health, and intervention and referral guidelines will be developed for managing common mental health problems.
The community mental health centers will be supported by providing specialized training and supervision for 90 community mental health workers. A training plan will be developed and operational policy will be established in all community centers. The centers will be supported to provide rehabilitation services for people with severe mental illness.
The project will support the strengthening of the rehabilitation units in the two psychiatric hospitals, and establishment of two acute care units in two general hospitals for improving patient access to mental health services. Patient care between levels of services will be strengthened by establishing an information system, and developing a code of practice for mental health professionals and referral methods.
Individuals will be encouraged to seek health care through measures that improve accessibility to mental health services. The project will support the existing family and users associations in the West Bank and will establish a new association in Gaza. Civil society organizations will be supported in developing anti-stigma campaigns and improving mental health awareness among the population.
"The program is about improving services for people with mental health disease and changing attitudes," summed up Mr. Tony Laurance, WHO Head of Office oPt. "It requires everyone to participate to achieve the goals."
Mental health in Palestine
In the West Bank and Gaza, mental disorders such as depression and anxiety, as well as more serious mental illness such as schizophrenia, are under-reported, under-resourced and under-treated. The occupation of the West Bank, blockade and siege of the Gaza Strip, violence, poverty and unemployment contribute substantially to the burden of mental health illness in the occupied Palestinian territory, and disproportionately affect the most vulnerable population groups--- women, children and older people--- as well as young adult men.
Tony Laurance pointed out, "People with mental illness are stigmatized and badly served by the health sector in the occupied Palestinian territories, as in the region and most of the world. The result is a lot of preventable suffering and a huge burden on families."
No reliable national data exists but WHO estimates that, globally, 25% of the general population can be expected to develop common mental disorders at some point in their lives, and some may develop serious mental illness. Comparing WHO surveys in post-conflict countries and local studies, WHO estimates that 5-10% of the population in the oPt may currently suffer some form of common mental disorder; less than one in five of those in need currently accesses health care services: about 4,500 individuals a year. Many Palestinians do not seek treatment as a result of neglect, or fear of discrimination or stigma. If treatment is sought and an accurate diagnosis is made, most mental disorders can be treated successfully at community mental health centers and with simple low-cost medications.
World Mental Health Day: focus on Depression
Today, 450 million people in developed and developing countries suffer from mental disorders, contributing substantially to the burden of disability worldwide. Five of the 10 leading causes of disability result from mental health conditions. Mental and neurological disorders account for an estimated 12% of the total Disability Adjusted Life Years (DALYs) lost due to all diseases and injuries, taking an enormous toll in terms of suffering, disability and economic loss.
The WHO has identified Depression as the most common mental health disease globally, and the leading cause of disability, as well as a risk factor for poverty. By 2020, depression is expected to be a leading cause of the global burden of disease, second only to ischemic heart disease.
Social determinants of mental health
WHO defines health as "a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity." Mental health is a state of well-being in which an individual realizes his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and is able to make a contribution to his or her community. In this positive sense, mental health is the foundation for individual well-being and the effective functioning of a community.
Mental health well being requires that individuals enjoy the security and freedom provided by basic human rights, Rapid social change, stressful work conditions, gender discrimination, social exclusion, unhealthy lifestyle, risks of violence and physical ill-health and human rights violations increase vulnerability, as do specific psychological and personality factors and some biological causes, including genetic factors and chemical imbalances in the brain.
The WHO will provide technical support for the project which the Ministry of Health will implement in 48 health facilities in the West Bank and Gaza, in line with the National Mental Health Strategy, 2012-2014. The project also aims to increase patient access by strengthening Palestinian civil society involvement in service provision and in fighting stigma and discrimination.
The WHO and the MoH have worked together over the last decade, most recently in an EU-funded Phase 1 project (2008-2011), to reshape mental health and psycho-social support services from a traditional institutional-based approach to a community-based approach. This EU-funded Phase 2 project builds on this work and emphasizes effective prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of common and severe mental health disorders, and will be implemented across a continuum of care levels: primary assessment and ongoing care in primary health care clinics, specialized and community care in Community Mental Health Centers, acute care units in general hospitals and promoting rehabilitation services in tertiary care facilities.
Major Project Activities 2012-2015
The current project will focus on strengthening primary mental health care as the first level of mental health service provision. The integration of mental health into primary health care will include 28 primary care facilities. 180 doctors and nurses working in these clinics will be trained on mental health, and intervention and referral guidelines will be developed for managing common mental health problems.
The community mental health centers will be supported by providing specialized training and supervision for 90 community mental health workers. A training plan will be developed and operational policy will be established in all community centers. The centers will be supported to provide rehabilitation services for people with severe mental illness.
The project will support the strengthening of the rehabilitation units in the two psychiatric hospitals, and establishment of two acute care units in two general hospitals for improving patient access to mental health services. Patient care between levels of services will be strengthened by establishing an information system, and developing a code of practice for mental health professionals and referral methods.
Individuals will be encouraged to seek health care through measures that improve accessibility to mental health services. The project will support the existing family and users associations in the West Bank and will establish a new association in Gaza. Civil society organizations will be supported in developing anti-stigma campaigns and improving mental health awareness among the population.
"The program is about improving services for people with mental health disease and changing attitudes," summed up Mr. Tony Laurance, WHO Head of Office oPt. "It requires everyone to participate to achieve the goals."
Mental health in Palestine
In the West Bank and Gaza, mental disorders such as depression and anxiety, as well as more serious mental illness such as schizophrenia, are under-reported, under-resourced and under-treated. The occupation of the West Bank, blockade and siege of the Gaza Strip, violence, poverty and unemployment contribute substantially to the burden of mental health illness in the occupied Palestinian territory, and disproportionately affect the most vulnerable population groups--- women, children and older people--- as well as young adult men.
Tony Laurance pointed out, "People with mental illness are stigmatized and badly served by the health sector in the occupied Palestinian territories, as in the region and most of the world. The result is a lot of preventable suffering and a huge burden on families."
No reliable national data exists but WHO estimates that, globally, 25% of the general population can be expected to develop common mental disorders at some point in their lives, and some may develop serious mental illness. Comparing WHO surveys in post-conflict countries and local studies, WHO estimates that 5-10% of the population in the oPt may currently suffer some form of common mental disorder; less than one in five of those in need currently accesses health care services: about 4,500 individuals a year. Many Palestinians do not seek treatment as a result of neglect, or fear of discrimination or stigma. If treatment is sought and an accurate diagnosis is made, most mental disorders can be treated successfully at community mental health centers and with simple low-cost medications.
World Mental Health Day: focus on Depression
Today, 450 million people in developed and developing countries suffer from mental disorders, contributing substantially to the burden of disability worldwide. Five of the 10 leading causes of disability result from mental health conditions. Mental and neurological disorders account for an estimated 12% of the total Disability Adjusted Life Years (DALYs) lost due to all diseases and injuries, taking an enormous toll in terms of suffering, disability and economic loss.
The WHO has identified Depression as the most common mental health disease globally, and the leading cause of disability, as well as a risk factor for poverty. By 2020, depression is expected to be a leading cause of the global burden of disease, second only to ischemic heart disease.
Social determinants of mental health
WHO defines health as "a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity." Mental health is a state of well-being in which an individual realizes his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and is able to make a contribution to his or her community. In this positive sense, mental health is the foundation for individual well-being and the effective functioning of a community.
Mental health well being requires that individuals enjoy the security and freedom provided by basic human rights, Rapid social change, stressful work conditions, gender discrimination, social exclusion, unhealthy lifestyle, risks of violence and physical ill-health and human rights violations increase vulnerability, as do specific psychological and personality factors and some biological causes, including genetic factors and chemical imbalances in the brain.
30 sept 2012
Manufacture of the first Arab artificial cochlear in Gaza
GAZA,(PIC)-- The international surgeon Professor Mazen Al-Hajri anounced the manufacturing the first Arab artificial cochlear developed to be implanted using keyhole surgery for deaf people in the Gaza Strip.
This came during a conference held in Gaza City on Saturday, in which al-Hariji, who is visiting Gaza, announced the manufacture of the first Arab cochlear and the results of cochlear implants for the Deaf in the Gaza Strip during the last three years by himself.
The conference was attended by several officials and donors from the State of Qatar, as well as patients fitted with cochlear implants and their families.
The results surprised the attendance and Professor Al-Hajri, who could not hold back his tears when he heard some of these children who have received their education after Cochlear Implants reciting the Quran and singing.
In 2007 the first cochlea transplants were carried out in the Gaza Strip through an incision behind the ear which had many risks to children, but now we developed the transplantation process to be carried out via keyhole surgery with fewer risks, Al-Hajri said.
He explained that 1122 cochlear implants were conducted, 90% of which were conducted for free through donations from Arab countries, pointing out that with keyhole surgery a Cochlear Implant can be carried out in about 35 minutes, while they used to take a long time before.
This came during a conference held in Gaza City on Saturday, in which al-Hariji, who is visiting Gaza, announced the manufacture of the first Arab cochlear and the results of cochlear implants for the Deaf in the Gaza Strip during the last three years by himself.
The conference was attended by several officials and donors from the State of Qatar, as well as patients fitted with cochlear implants and their families.
The results surprised the attendance and Professor Al-Hajri, who could not hold back his tears when he heard some of these children who have received their education after Cochlear Implants reciting the Quran and singing.
In 2007 the first cochlea transplants were carried out in the Gaza Strip through an incision behind the ear which had many risks to children, but now we developed the transplantation process to be carried out via keyhole surgery with fewer risks, Al-Hajri said.
He explained that 1122 cochlear implants were conducted, 90% of which were conducted for free through donations from Arab countries, pointing out that with keyhole surgery a Cochlear Implant can be carried out in about 35 minutes, while they used to take a long time before.
19 sept 2012
WHO Report on Referral of Gaza Patients August 2012
On Wednesday 19th September, World Health Organisation (WHO) issued a report on referrals of patients from Gaza.
In summary:
-· Rafah closure: During August 2012, Egyptian authorities closed Rafah border for 17 days. As a result several hundred patients and their companions were unable to reach their hospital appointments in Egypt.
-· Died while waiting for permit: A female patient suffering from breast cancer died while waiting for a permit to cross Erez and access the health care she was referred to.
-· Interrogated: 10 patients were reported to have been called for Israeli interrogation (2 females; 8 males).
-· Denied: 7 patients (1 female; 6 males) were denied permits to exit Erez crossing for medical treatment.
-· Delayed: 35 patients (12 females; 23 males) did not receive a response to their permit applications and missed their hospital appointments.
-· MoH referrals requiring permits: The number of referred patients needing access through Erez was 599 (336 to East Jerusalem, 164 to Israel, and 99 to the West Bank). 209 patients were referred to Egypt which requires special clearance at the border.
-· Medical reasons: Most August referrals were for: oncology (19%), ophthalmology (11%), nuclear medicine (9%), pediatrics (8%), hematology (7%), neurosurgery (5%), cardiology (5%). The estimated cost for referrals was NIS 8,223,563 about $2,108,389.
-· Decreased internal Gaza referrals: Only 28 referrals were made in August by the Ministry of Health to private or non-governmental health facilities in Gaza, compared to 289 internal referrals in January. According to the RAD in Gaza, one explanation for the drop is that both the MRI and cardiac catheterization in Gaza European Hospital began functioning again, replacing the need for outside referrals.
to See the full report click HERE
In summary:
-· Rafah closure: During August 2012, Egyptian authorities closed Rafah border for 17 days. As a result several hundred patients and their companions were unable to reach their hospital appointments in Egypt.
-· Died while waiting for permit: A female patient suffering from breast cancer died while waiting for a permit to cross Erez and access the health care she was referred to.
-· Interrogated: 10 patients were reported to have been called for Israeli interrogation (2 females; 8 males).
-· Denied: 7 patients (1 female; 6 males) were denied permits to exit Erez crossing for medical treatment.
-· Delayed: 35 patients (12 females; 23 males) did not receive a response to their permit applications and missed their hospital appointments.
-· MoH referrals requiring permits: The number of referred patients needing access through Erez was 599 (336 to East Jerusalem, 164 to Israel, and 99 to the West Bank). 209 patients were referred to Egypt which requires special clearance at the border.
-· Medical reasons: Most August referrals were for: oncology (19%), ophthalmology (11%), nuclear medicine (9%), pediatrics (8%), hematology (7%), neurosurgery (5%), cardiology (5%). The estimated cost for referrals was NIS 8,223,563 about $2,108,389.
-· Decreased internal Gaza referrals: Only 28 referrals were made in August by the Ministry of Health to private or non-governmental health facilities in Gaza, compared to 289 internal referrals in January. According to the RAD in Gaza, one explanation for the drop is that both the MRI and cardiac catheterization in Gaza European Hospital began functioning again, replacing the need for outside referrals.
to See the full report click HERE
Chilean doctors complete mission to Palestine
BETHLEHEM (Ma'an) -- A group of Chilean doctors have completed a mission to Palestine providing orthopedic treatment to children.
The all-female delegation, that arrived in late August, operated on 27 Palestinian children with orthopedic deformities.
The trip was a joint effort between the Palestinian Foundation Bethlehem 2000 - Chile, the Palestine Children's Relief Fund,and the Chilean Society of Pediatric Surgery.
"We are so happy to be in Palestine, we hope to contribute as much as we can with our knowledge; and specially improve the lives of many children" said Dr Veronica Abdallah Hirane, who led the delegation.
She was joined by Dr Maria Veronica Herrera Gallegos and anesthetist Dr Maria Antonieta Ribal Laiz.
The team met with Laila Ghannam, governor of Ramallah, during their visit.
The all-female delegation, that arrived in late August, operated on 27 Palestinian children with orthopedic deformities.
The trip was a joint effort between the Palestinian Foundation Bethlehem 2000 - Chile, the Palestine Children's Relief Fund,and the Chilean Society of Pediatric Surgery.
"We are so happy to be in Palestine, we hope to contribute as much as we can with our knowledge; and specially improve the lives of many children" said Dr Veronica Abdallah Hirane, who led the delegation.
She was joined by Dr Maria Veronica Herrera Gallegos and anesthetist Dr Maria Antonieta Ribal Laiz.
The team met with Laila Ghannam, governor of Ramallah, during their visit.
18 sept 2012
Health unions to escalate protest action
RAMALLAH (Ma'an) -- Health unions announced Tuesday that they will escalate protest action as the Palestinian Authority continues to procrastinate in responding to their demands.
The announcement was made after health unions met with PA Health Minister Hani Adbin. A sit-in strike will take place Tuesday from 12 a.m. to 2 p.m. and work will be suspended on Thursday from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., health union head Osama Najjar said.
"We will follow all developments in the public sphere and the logistical level as we are keen to serve Palestinian society. If the PA does not respond to our demands, this will lead to an escalation, and may lead to an open strike," he added.
Health unions are demanding the recruitment of extra staff, transportation costs for eligible applicants, fair standards for transferring staff between different departments and promotions.
Palestinian Authority Prime Minister Salam Fayyad announced several measures last week to alleviate the economic crisis.
The economic measures will also include cuts on expenses for PA ministries, with the exception of the health, education and social affairs departments.
In early September, Abdin said that the health ministry faces a shortage of many different medicines due to the financial crisis.
The announcement was made after health unions met with PA Health Minister Hani Adbin. A sit-in strike will take place Tuesday from 12 a.m. to 2 p.m. and work will be suspended on Thursday from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., health union head Osama Najjar said.
"We will follow all developments in the public sphere and the logistical level as we are keen to serve Palestinian society. If the PA does not respond to our demands, this will lead to an escalation, and may lead to an open strike," he added.
Health unions are demanding the recruitment of extra staff, transportation costs for eligible applicants, fair standards for transferring staff between different departments and promotions.
Palestinian Authority Prime Minister Salam Fayyad announced several measures last week to alleviate the economic crisis.
The economic measures will also include cuts on expenses for PA ministries, with the exception of the health, education and social affairs departments.
In early September, Abdin said that the health ministry faces a shortage of many different medicines due to the financial crisis.
16 sept 2012
Egyptian medical delegation: suffering in Gaza much deeper than media coverage
GAZA,(PIC)-- The Egyptian medical delegation, which visited Gaza for four days, confirmed that the people's suffering in Gaza strip is much deeper and harder than media coverage.
What we have seen in Gaza, the suffering of people due to the imposed siege, is much greater than what is covered by media, the Secretary-General of the Humanitarian Relief Committee, Dr. Khaled Abdul-Aziz said, calling on the international health institutions to check directly the difficult humanitarian condition in Gaza.
He said that the delegation's visit to Gaza succeeded to provide a part of the needed drugs, which contribute to alleviate the suffering of patients, thanking the Ministry of Health and the Palestinian government in Gaza for the warm reception.
During their visit to Gaza, the delegation members met with the Prime Minister, Ismail Haniyeh, and officials in the Health Ministry where they visited many of the hospitals and medical stores.
The delegation left on Saturday morning the Gaza Strip on its way to Cairo after a four-day visit to check the health situation in the Gaza Strip, where they provided up to ten million pounds worth of emergency medical assistance.
What we have seen in Gaza, the suffering of people due to the imposed siege, is much greater than what is covered by media, the Secretary-General of the Humanitarian Relief Committee, Dr. Khaled Abdul-Aziz said, calling on the international health institutions to check directly the difficult humanitarian condition in Gaza.
He said that the delegation's visit to Gaza succeeded to provide a part of the needed drugs, which contribute to alleviate the suffering of patients, thanking the Ministry of Health and the Palestinian government in Gaza for the warm reception.
During their visit to Gaza, the delegation members met with the Prime Minister, Ismail Haniyeh, and officials in the Health Ministry where they visited many of the hospitals and medical stores.
The delegation left on Saturday morning the Gaza Strip on its way to Cairo after a four-day visit to check the health situation in the Gaza Strip, where they provided up to ten million pounds worth of emergency medical assistance.
10 sept 2012
Experimental chemical plant polluting Palestinian village in the Negev
Silwanic has learnt that a private Israeli company is using lands belonging to the Palestinian village of Wadi al-Ne’am, north of Beer Sheba, for dangerous chemical experiments.
An outdoor chemical plant approximately two kilometers from the village was visited by Silwanic journalists, who found a sign hanging on the barbed wire perimeter that reads “Danger of drowning, do not approach” in Arabic, and “Danger of drowning and poisoning, do not approach” in Hebrew.
The whole region is polluted by chemical fumes that affect breathing, and cause skin irritation. The chemical plant and its industrial pools lie on hundreds of acres taken from villagers some 25 years ago, says tribal elder Sheikh Yussef al-Zaiadin. The plant was built without consultation with any local residents.
Information and signposting in Arabic remains unclear around the site. The extent of the environmental impact of the plant is enormous, and as yet not fully documented.
Both human residents and cattle are affected by the open chemical pools, with the chemicals produced sprayed over the village and surrounding plains by crop-duster aeroplanes, as a means of testing their efficacy. This has led to widespread cattle death and the death of surrounding vegetation. Many residents suffer from health problems such as shortness of breath, skin diseases and birth defects.
The chemical plant is only one of many Israeli factories and industrial sites that have confiscated thousands of acres of village land. A major power plant lies 100 meters from the village, while none of its residents receive electricity from the state, as is the situation faced by all “unrecognized” villages in the Negev desert.
Residents are forced to use generators and to buy water. Wadi al-Ne’am is home to 24,000 people, some of whose homes have demolition orders from the Israeli state, others whose homes have already been demolished.
The town’s residents own the land it is built on, and do not engage in a Bedouin “lifestyle” as the state claims. Community groups in Wadi al-Ne’am, along with the Wadi Hilweh Information Center, have issued a public statement calling for the Israeli government to intervene and remove the factories and chemical plant from their land, and to put a stop to their attempt to ethnically cleanse the Negev of its Palestinian inhabitants.
An outdoor chemical plant approximately two kilometers from the village was visited by Silwanic journalists, who found a sign hanging on the barbed wire perimeter that reads “Danger of drowning, do not approach” in Arabic, and “Danger of drowning and poisoning, do not approach” in Hebrew.
The whole region is polluted by chemical fumes that affect breathing, and cause skin irritation. The chemical plant and its industrial pools lie on hundreds of acres taken from villagers some 25 years ago, says tribal elder Sheikh Yussef al-Zaiadin. The plant was built without consultation with any local residents.
Information and signposting in Arabic remains unclear around the site. The extent of the environmental impact of the plant is enormous, and as yet not fully documented.
Both human residents and cattle are affected by the open chemical pools, with the chemicals produced sprayed over the village and surrounding plains by crop-duster aeroplanes, as a means of testing their efficacy. This has led to widespread cattle death and the death of surrounding vegetation. Many residents suffer from health problems such as shortness of breath, skin diseases and birth defects.
The chemical plant is only one of many Israeli factories and industrial sites that have confiscated thousands of acres of village land. A major power plant lies 100 meters from the village, while none of its residents receive electricity from the state, as is the situation faced by all “unrecognized” villages in the Negev desert.
Residents are forced to use generators and to buy water. Wadi al-Ne’am is home to 24,000 people, some of whose homes have demolition orders from the Israeli state, others whose homes have already been demolished.
The town’s residents own the land it is built on, and do not engage in a Bedouin “lifestyle” as the state claims. Community groups in Wadi al-Ne’am, along with the Wadi Hilweh Information Center, have issued a public statement calling for the Israeli government to intervene and remove the factories and chemical plant from their land, and to put a stop to their attempt to ethnically cleanse the Negev of its Palestinian inhabitants.
9 sept 2012
91 children hospitalized after drinking contaminated water
Around 91 schoolboys from the Jenin village of Sanur were taken to Jenin's public hospital and emergency clinics in the village
JENIN (Ma'an) -- Over 90 schoolboys were hospitalized on Sunday after drinking contaminated water in a Jenin village, a PA official said.
Director of the Jenin district's ministry of health, Salih Zakarna, told Ma'an that samples from the school's water tanks tested positive for contamination.
Around 91 schoolboys from the village of Sanur were taken to Jenin's public hospital and emergency clinics in the village after reporting symptoms of severe fatigue, nausea and fever.
All were later released after treatment, Zarkana said.
A letter was sent by the PA Ministry of Health to the school, and officials in Qabatiya, to demand that they replace all water tanks and fix the water system in the area, he added.
Food samples from the school canteen were also sent to a laboratory for testing.
The incident comes after 24 children were admitted to hospital in Jenin on Saturday after drinking contaminated water in their elementary school.
Parents reported symptoms of vomiting and a high fever, a police statement said.
Jenin governor Talal Dweikat ordered police to carry out a full investigation into both cases.
Over 90 students poisoned in Jenin
JENIN, (PIC)-- Scores of students in the secondary school of Sanur town, near Jenin in the northern West Bank, were transferred to hospital for treatment after being poisoned, Palestinian medical sources reported.
Dr. Saleh Zakarna, the Director of Jenin's Health, pointed out that the number of cases affected by poison in Sanur's secondary school has reached, since last Thursday, ninety-one cases.
He added: "The follow up, with the Ministry of Health, Shahid Khalil Suleiman government Hospital and the Department of Education in Qabatiya, shows that there are none of the cases is serious."
Dr. Zakarna revealed that samples were taken from the water tanks, which supply the school and school's canteen, and were transferred to the city of Ramallah for analysis, pointing out that the preliminary results will be announced during the coming 48 hours.
JENIN (Ma'an) -- Over 90 schoolboys were hospitalized on Sunday after drinking contaminated water in a Jenin village, a PA official said.
Director of the Jenin district's ministry of health, Salih Zakarna, told Ma'an that samples from the school's water tanks tested positive for contamination.
Around 91 schoolboys from the village of Sanur were taken to Jenin's public hospital and emergency clinics in the village after reporting symptoms of severe fatigue, nausea and fever.
All were later released after treatment, Zarkana said.
A letter was sent by the PA Ministry of Health to the school, and officials in Qabatiya, to demand that they replace all water tanks and fix the water system in the area, he added.
Food samples from the school canteen were also sent to a laboratory for testing.
The incident comes after 24 children were admitted to hospital in Jenin on Saturday after drinking contaminated water in their elementary school.
Parents reported symptoms of vomiting and a high fever, a police statement said.
Jenin governor Talal Dweikat ordered police to carry out a full investigation into both cases.
Over 90 students poisoned in Jenin
JENIN, (PIC)-- Scores of students in the secondary school of Sanur town, near Jenin in the northern West Bank, were transferred to hospital for treatment after being poisoned, Palestinian medical sources reported.
Dr. Saleh Zakarna, the Director of Jenin's Health, pointed out that the number of cases affected by poison in Sanur's secondary school has reached, since last Thursday, ninety-one cases.
He added: "The follow up, with the Ministry of Health, Shahid Khalil Suleiman government Hospital and the Department of Education in Qabatiya, shows that there are none of the cases is serious."
Dr. Zakarna revealed that samples were taken from the water tanks, which supply the school and school's canteen, and were transferred to the city of Ramallah for analysis, pointing out that the preliminary results will be announced during the coming 48 hours.
Japan Funds Project for Equipping Emergency Room in Jerusalem
Junya Matsuura, Ambassador for the Palestinian Affairs and the Representative of Japan to the PA, and Abdallah Sabri, Chairman of the Administrative Board of RCSH in East Jerusalem signed a $91,810 grant contract of the project for 'Equipping the New Emergency Treatment Room of the Red Crescent Society Hospital in Jerusalem,' Sunday said a press release by Representative Office of Japan in Ramallah.
The signing ceremony of the project, funded by the Government of Japan through the Japan's Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP), was held in the RCH in Jerusalem and attended by Adnan Husseini, Governor of Jerusalem and Minister of Jerusalem Affairs.
The new grant will be utilized for equipping the new emergency room with the needed medical equipments and devices to enable ob-gyn patients who are carried to the hospital for emergency, amounting at 320 people every month on average, to receive appropriate treatment more rapidly and calmly in a more secured and spacious environment, said the release.
Matsuura emphasized Japan’s firm commitment of supporting Palestinian people from human security perspective as well as the importance of implementing social and economic development projects needed for Palestinian communities, especially in East Jerusalem.
Since 1993, Japan has provided more than $1.25 billion to Palestinians, including its assistance through GGP to more than 320 projects with its total amount of about $23 million. GGP projects have been formulated in collaboration with MoPAD since 2010.
The signing ceremony of the project, funded by the Government of Japan through the Japan's Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP), was held in the RCH in Jerusalem and attended by Adnan Husseini, Governor of Jerusalem and Minister of Jerusalem Affairs.
The new grant will be utilized for equipping the new emergency room with the needed medical equipments and devices to enable ob-gyn patients who are carried to the hospital for emergency, amounting at 320 people every month on average, to receive appropriate treatment more rapidly and calmly in a more secured and spacious environment, said the release.
Matsuura emphasized Japan’s firm commitment of supporting Palestinian people from human security perspective as well as the importance of implementing social and economic development projects needed for Palestinian communities, especially in East Jerusalem.
Since 1993, Japan has provided more than $1.25 billion to Palestinians, including its assistance through GGP to more than 320 projects with its total amount of about $23 million. GGP projects have been formulated in collaboration with MoPAD since 2010.
8 sept 2012
24 children admitted to hospital after drinking contaminated water
Children fill water bottles in the Gaza Strip
JENIN (Ma'an) -- Twenty-four children were admitted to hospital in Jenin on Saturday after drinking contaminated water in their elementary school, police said.
Parents reported symptoms of vomiting and a high fever, a police statement said. Eighteen children are still in hospital and six have been released after treatment.
Police are investigating the incident.
JENIN (Ma'an) -- Twenty-four children were admitted to hospital in Jenin on Saturday after drinking contaminated water in their elementary school, police said.
Parents reported symptoms of vomiting and a high fever, a police statement said. Eighteen children are still in hospital and six have been released after treatment.
Police are investigating the incident.
5 sept 2012
Occupation prevents Gazan child's travel for treatment
GAZA,(PIC)-- Israeli occupation authorities (IOA) have refused to allow a Palestinian child, Nour al-Shami, to enter the territories occupied in 1948, Dr. Ashraf Kodra, Health ministry spokesman, confirmed.
The Health Ministry in Gaza denounced, on Tuesday, the Israeli decision that prevents a Palestinian child to get treatment.
Kodra called on human rights institutions and the International Committee of the Red Cross and the World Health Organization to immediately intervene to end the suffering of the child who is in dire need of treatment.
The Health Ministry in Gaza denounced, on Tuesday, the Israeli decision that prevents a Palestinian child to get treatment.
Kodra called on human rights institutions and the International Committee of the Red Cross and the World Health Organization to immediately intervene to end the suffering of the child who is in dire need of treatment.
4 sept 2012
Gaza health ministry says to reinstate dismissed workers
The health ministry in the Gaza Strip is re-admitting workers who were dismissed during clashes between Fatah and Hamas in 2007, a spokesman said Tuesday.
Ashraf al-Qudra said ministry officials decided during a weekly meeting to reinstate doctors who lost their jobs for political reasons when Hamas took charge of Gaza's institutions.
The Palestinian Authority meanwhile is failing to pay salaries for employees in Gaza, as it copes with a financial crisis across the occupied territories, workers say.
Since the Palestinian split, a small number of employees have been cut off from their salaries. Several told Ma'an that they were either cut off right away, or within the past two years.
Some of the employees say the PA has used the pretext of a financial crisis to justify the failure to pay.
Since Hamas took control of Gaza during a brief period of violence in the summer of 2007, the Fatah-controlled PA in Ramallah has ordered employees not to work for government institutions.
Ashraf al-Qudra said ministry officials decided during a weekly meeting to reinstate doctors who lost their jobs for political reasons when Hamas took charge of Gaza's institutions.
The Palestinian Authority meanwhile is failing to pay salaries for employees in Gaza, as it copes with a financial crisis across the occupied territories, workers say.
Since the Palestinian split, a small number of employees have been cut off from their salaries. Several told Ma'an that they were either cut off right away, or within the past two years.
Some of the employees say the PA has used the pretext of a financial crisis to justify the failure to pay.
Since Hamas took control of Gaza during a brief period of violence in the summer of 2007, the Fatah-controlled PA in Ramallah has ordered employees not to work for government institutions.
3 sept 2012
PA Minister of Health: Efforts being made to improve services
Hani Abdin talks with Maan News Agency's chief editor Nasser Al-Lahham
The Palestinian Authority Minister of Health said Sunday that serious efforts are being made to improve hospitals and medical facilities.
Hani Abdin made the comments during an interview with Ma'an, stressing that the ministry faces a shortage of many different medicines due to the financial crisis.
The Ministry has a budget of around 1.2 billlion shekels ($298 million), Abdin said, noting that around 50 percent goes towards paying staff salaries, and 50 percent for operational costs.
Around 47 percent of the operational budget goes towards buying medicine and medical equipment while around 35 percent is used to buy services from abroad, Abdin added.
The Palestinian Authority Minister of Health said Sunday that serious efforts are being made to improve hospitals and medical facilities.
Hani Abdin made the comments during an interview with Ma'an, stressing that the ministry faces a shortage of many different medicines due to the financial crisis.
The Ministry has a budget of around 1.2 billlion shekels ($298 million), Abdin said, noting that around 50 percent goes towards paying staff salaries, and 50 percent for operational costs.
Around 47 percent of the operational budget goes towards buying medicine and medical equipment while around 35 percent is used to buy services from abroad, Abdin added.