Jordan Pledges Stronger Health Ties with World Health Organization

Alanbatnews -

Jordan is committed to strengthening its strategic partnership with the World Health Organization (WHO) and advancing universal health coverage, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals 2030, particularly Goal 3 on good health and well-being, according to Health Minister Ibrahim Al-Badour.

Al-Badour emphasized Jordan's belief that health is a fundamental right and a cornerstone of sustainable development during a meeting with WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus at the Ministry of Health. WHO Representative in Jordan Iman Al-Shanqiti and several ministry officials also attended the meeting.

Al-Badour expressed his appreciation for the WHO's continuous support to Jordan. He affirmed the Kingdom's commitment to building a resilient and comprehensive health system that ensures access to services for all, despite regional challenges, economic pressures, and the large number of refugees it hosts.

In recent years, Jordan has achieved significant milestones in expanding and modernizing primary healthcare services, strengthening infrastructure, and enhancing supply chains, Al-Badour noted.

He also highlighted the accelerated pace of digital transformation through the implementation of electronic health records, telemedicine services, digital healthcare, and national health records, which have enhanced efficiency, transparency, and evidence-based decision-making.

Quality of healthcare and patient safety are top priorities for reform, Al-Badour explained, pointing to the launch of the National Strategy for Quality and Patient Safety, which aims to provide standardized, high-quality health services in various public sector facilities.

The ministry is also moving forward with mental health service reforms in cooperation with the WHO, through specialized initiatives that promote integrated community services and support the integration of mental health into primary healthcare, he added.

Al-Badour stressed Jordan's continued humanitarian commitment to refugees, as one of the world's top refugee-hosting countries relative to its population, ensuring their access to all healthcare services.

Tedros expressed his appreciation for the meeting with the Minister of Health, which he said was an important opportunity to reaffirm their shared commitment to strengthening universal health coverage and primary health care as the foundation for building healthier and more resilient societies.

He also expressed his sincere appreciation for the long-standing cooperation between Jordan and the WHO, particularly in expanding mental health services and integrating them into the public health system.

Tedros also thanked the Minister for the government's continued support for refugees, including sick children evacuated from Gaza who are receiving critical care in Jordan, reflecting Jordan's leading and humanitarian role in times of dire need.

He further stated that they discussed the ongoing challenge posed by non-communicable diseases and the urgent need to reduce population exposure to risk factors such as tobacco use. The WHO, he affirmed, stands ready to continue supporting Jordan in strengthening policies and programs that protect health, save lives, and promote well-being for all.

Huda Ababneh, Director of the Project Management, Planning, and International Cooperation Directorate at the Ministry of Health, presented a brief overview of the components of the health sector in Jordan, including the Ministry of Health, key health indicators, priorities, challenges, and national plans in the field.