The Moroccan government, led by Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch, is reforming the healthcare system to enhance access and quality through digitisation, infrastructure improvements, and workforce expansion. This initiative is part of the Royal Programme of Social Protection and addresses citizens’ needs under the vision of King Mohammed VI. Despite facing criticisms regarding privatization, these reforms aim to promote social justice and an efficient healthcare system.
The Moroccan government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch, is actively pursuing comprehensive healthcare reform aimed at enhancing access to quality healthcare services. This initiative is grounded in key areas such as digitisation, infrastructure improvement, and workforce expansion to ensure that citizens receive more accessible medical care.
Through the Royal Programme of Social Protection, Morocco aims to transform its public health system in response to citizens’ needs, reflecting the vision of King Mohammed VI. Prime Minister Akhannouch has highlighted a strategy founded on four essential pillars: strengthening governance institutions, ongoing infrastructure development, digitising healthcare, and increasing the healthcare workforce.
During a recent progress review meeting, Akhannouch emphasized the necessity of providing public health services that both meet public expectations and strengthen the welfare state framework. Current projects include the construction and expansion of six university hospitals and 79 regional and provincial hospitals, which will collectively add over 11,000 beds to the country’s hospital capacity.
Digitisation of the national health system is another significant aspect, with plans to implement an integrated information system to gather and manage vital health sector data. To ensure financial efficiency, a collaboration agreement is anticipated between the Ministry of Health and Social Protection, the Ministry of Economy and Finance, and the National Social Security Fund.
Furthermore, the government is undertaking initiatives to boost the number of health professionals, addressing the current staff shortages and reforming the training system. New medical and pharmacy faculties are being established in Guelmim, Errachidia, and Beni Mellal.
Tayeb Hamdi, a health policy researcher, noted that King Mohammed VI’s health programmes represent a significant social transformation by viewing health as not merely a social sector but a crucial factor for national development. However, Hamdi cautioned that overcoming existing challenges remains critical, particularly in improving service quality and ensuring equitable access across regions.
Despite the advancements, the reform plan has encountered criticism, particularly regarding the privatization of the health insurance program. The recent Higher Council of Audit report indicated that 74% of health insurance expenses are allocated to the private sector, with only 26% designated for public hospitals.
Through these developments, Morocco aspires to create a more inclusive and efficient healthcare system that enhances the quality of care while promoting social and territorial equity, aligned with its ambitions as an emerging nation.
In summary, Morocco is committed to overhauling its healthcare system to improve access and quality for its citizens. By focusing on digitisation, infrastructure, and workforce expansion, the government aims to create an inclusive healthcare landscape. However, challenges persist, particularly with the privatization of health services, necessitating ongoing efforts to ensure equality and service quality across all regions.
Original Source: www.atalayar.com
