19 May 2024
signing of a cooperation protocol with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)

Dr. Ahmed El-Sabki, chairman of Egypt Healthcare Authority and supervisor of the universal health insurance and decent life projects at the Ministry of Health and Population, witnessed the signing of a cooperation protocol with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to fund the Japanese technical cooperation project in patient-centered healthcare towards comprehensive health coverage for the next three years.

Dr. El-Sabki stated that the Japanese technical cooperation project for patient-centered healthcare will be implemented in 22 health facilities across various health sectors and governorates involved in the first and second phases of the comprehensive health insurance system and the "Decent Life" initiative.

He emphasized that patient-centered healthcare is a crucial pillar for enhancing the quality of healthcare services, increasing the effectiveness of the health system, and improving patient experiences. The project, expected to be completed within three years from 2024 to 2027, is a significant opportunity for preparing quality and safety guidelines for patients, enhancing e-learning tools, and training national facilitators to spread the culture of patient-centered care across all health facilities in Egypt.

Dr. El-Sabki highlighted that cooperation with JICA represents an important step towards achieving the strategic goals of the Egyptian state and the General Authority for Health Care in enhancing the quality of health services and achieving comprehensive health coverage for all citizens.

The senior advisor for health financing and health systems at JICA's headquarters, described the protocol as an important step towards strengthening cooperation between Egypt and Japan in the field of healthcare, which will significantly impact Egypt's health system positively.

The protocol agreement includes transforming one Egyptian hospital into a model hospital through a twinning process with a Japanese hospital. This model hospital will share expertise and best practices with other health facilities across Egypt.

The event, held at the headquarters of the General Authority for Health Care in Cairo, was attended by health leaders and officials from both parties. Dr. Amir Telwany, the executive director of the General Authority for Health Care, represented the Authority, while Dr. Makoto Toh, the senior advisor for health financing and health systems at JICA's headquarters, represented JICA.

This collaboration reflects the General Authority for Health Care and JICA's commitment to enhancing international cooperation to keep up with the latest global developments and innovations in healthcare and underscores the importance of transferring advanced Japanese expertise to the Egyptian healthcare system.