Mobile Medical Clinics Arrive in Erbil

The delivery of the clinics has been a joint logistical effort between WHO and WFP, which has mobilized its Logistics Cluster and aviation unit in Rome to arrange and oversee the transport of the mobile medical clinics by plane.

“The World Food Programme is pleased to have contributed to the timely shipment delivery of these mobile clinics through our financial and logistical efforts. We endeavour to deliver much needed medical assistance to vulnerable refugees and internally displaced populations in Iraq,” said Uma Thapa, Deputy Country Director of WFP Iraq.

Ongoing insecurity in Iraq continues to uproot families from their homes, resulting in increased displacement. The swell in population in parts of the country, especially in KRI, has placed significant strain on public resources and infrastructure, particularly the health system.

Hospitals and primary health care centers are struggling to meet the demand of increased patient case loads, particularly in areas where health workers are in short supply and where health facilities have been attacked or damaged. In areas of intense fighting, many people have been cut off to health care altogether.

“WHO continues to support the Federal and Kurdistan Ministries of Health in increasing access to health services for host communities and displaced populations, including those in hard-to-reach areas. The clinics will be directly integrated into the health system in Iraq,” Dr Hussein said.

An additional four clinics are expected to arrive in Erbil in late January.

(Source: UN)