Cairo:Health and Population Minister Khaled Abdel Ghaffar chaired a strategic meeting to accelerate the implementation of the Universal Health Insurance System in Egypt. The session was part of the ongoing efforts to enhance healthcare services and governance across the nation.

According to State Information Service Egypt, the meeting was attended by key figures including Presidential Adviser for Financial Affairs Lt. Gen. Ahmed Saad El Shazly, representatives from various ministries such as finance, planning, economic development, and international cooperation, alongside the Healthcare Authority and other pertinent bodies.

The meeting aimed to follow through on the recommendations from the "Egypt 2026" Forum, which have been translated into presidential directives. These directives focus on expediting the rollout of the insurance system in governorates involved in the second phase, aiming to broaden healthcare access and improve service quality.

Discussions during the meeting covered the planning, implementation, and financial outlook of the second phase through 2030. The Health Ministry emphasized the importance of adhering to implementation schedules and maintaining coordination among relevant authorities to prevent delays and address challenges.

The committee also reviewed the operational timeline from 2025 to 2030 for governorates such as Minya, North Sinai, Matrouh, Kafr El-Sheikh, and Damietta, evaluating healthcare needs and the expected increase in hospital bed capacity. The potential inclusion of Alexandria in this phase was also considered.

Minister Abdel Ghaffar stressed the need for monitoring infrastructure projects and ensuring the readiness of facilities and medical equipment. He advocated for ongoing evaluation and enhanced coordination to meet the healthcare system's goals and maintain high standards of service delivery.