More than 263,000 people over the age of 65 have so far benefitted from the Continuing Healthcare for the Elderly programme that was launched by the Ministry of Health last October. The figure was announced Ministry spokesperson, Hossam Abdel-Ghaffar.
The programme, as explained by Dr Abdel-Ghaffar, aims enhancing the quality of life of people over 65, through the early detection of health problems common within this age brackets. The service, he said, is currently offered through 401 medical centres across 21 of Egypt’s 27 governorates, as a first phase of the programme.
According to Wael Abdel-Razeq, Head of the Health Care and Nursing Sector with the Ministry, the services offered through the programme are the detection of non-communicable diseases including hypertension, diabetes, heart diseases, kidney failure, gastrointestinal diseases, and malnutrition (anemia, obesity), in addition to psychological and nutritional assessment.
Dr Abdel-Razeq explained that the programme also provides general clinical examination, body mass index calculation, eye and dental examinations, in addition to blood tests that involve haemoglobin, lipids, cholesterol, kidney functions, and random blood sugar test. The programme offers as well electrocardiograms and ultrasound radiation on the abdomen and pelvis.
The programme offers health awareness and psychological support services to enhance the health of the elderly, and raise awareness of the elderly’s health problems and how to prevent them. This in addition to nutritional advice regarding meal times and the balanced nutrition necessary for general health.
Each applicant is handed a periodic follow up card that gives him or her the privilege of biannual visits, Dr Abdel-Razeq said, pointing out that in case a patient needs further examination or treatment, the medical centres refer them to hospitals. He said there was continuous coordination between this Elderly programme and the 100 million Healths initiatives to optimise the benefit for patients.
100 Million Healths was launched by President Sisi in October 2018. It was first launched for mass screening and treatment of Hepatitis C, and NCDs. Under 100 Million Healths run other health initiatives that include treatment of chronic diseases, and early detection of renal impairment. All initiatives are electronically linked to one database that include the patients’ data.
The Ministry of Health’s hotline 15335, responds to all enquiries regarding the Continuing Healthcare for the Elderly programme.