News from Egypt: WHO Coordinates Medical Transfer of Patients from Gaza

A historic humanitarian operation is taking shape through the Rafah crossing. The World Health Organization announced that the first group of five patients has reached Egypt in recent days. According to reports from RTHK, the reopening of the crossing has enabled this crucial maneuver, allowing Gazan citizens to access essential medical care unavailable in their land. The First Journey to Egypt Alongside the five patients, seven qualified healthcare workers accompanied the group through the crossing. This transfer process represents a significant step in addressing the medical crisis in the region. In the current context, the ability to transfer patients to healthcare facilities in Egypt is of great importance to the regional health system. A Population in Waiting: Alarming Figures The situation remains critical. According to provided data, over 18,500 people are still waiting to access specialized care beyond the border. These individuals suffer from multiple conditions: injuries caused by conflict, oncological diseases, diabetes, and other serious ailments. The waiting list highlights the extent of the healthcare crisis affecting the local population. UNICEF’s Contribution and the Vulnerability of Minors The global organization dedicated to children has reported a particularly concerning figure: among the patients awaiting transfer, over 3,000 are children. This proportion underscores how medical vulnerability disproportionately affects minors, requiring priority in the allocation of transfers to hospitals in Egypt. Determining Healthcare Priorities Local medical authorities are currently assessing criteria to guide subsequent transfers. This selection phase is crucial to ensure that those with the most urgent needs are prioritized for access to care available in Egypt.