The Libyan Ministry of Health has announced the departure of the first group of pediatric cancer patients, from Benghazi’s Children’s Hospital for treatment in Turkey. This initiative aims to provide bone marrow transplant surgeries, and cancer treatment for these young patients.
The launch of this first group was made possible following the financial authorization provided by the Minister of Health, Osman Abdel-Jalil.
Abdel-Jalil stated that the Ministry has “taken all necessary financial and administrative measures, to ensure the smooth delivery of medical services to the affected children without any obstacles.”
He emphasized the importance of “not only conducting the surgery, but also ensuring comprehensive post-operative care. This step is crucial in providing the best possible healthcare to the children.”
Abdel-Jalil noted that the best medical centers in Turkey were selected for treating these pediatric cancer cases. Each group of patients will be accompanied by a Libyan consultant doctor, to oversee the services provided.
The Minister confirmed that following the completion of financial and administrative procedures, a second group of patients will be sent for treatment, continuing the initiative to provide critical healthcare to Libyan children.
This development represents a significant step in addressing the healthcare needs of patients in Libya, showcasing the government’s commitment to ensuring access to necessary medical treatment abroad.
Notably, the National Human Rights Institution in Libya (NIHRL) has urged the Governor of the Central Bank of Libya (CBL), Siddiq Al-Kabir to revoke the suspension of financial authorizations for Libyan citizens receiving medical treatment abroad.
The NIHRL has also appealed for the rapid provision of necessary financial coverage for these patients, especially in urgent cases requiring immediate care.
In a statement, the organisation expressed its “deep concern about the health and humanitarian situation of Libyan nationals undergoing treatment abroad. This concern is particularly acute for cancer patients, and those with other severe illnesses.”