Health minister affirms commitment to enhance mental health services

AMMAN — Health Minister Firas Al Hawari on Tuesday received a delegation of international experts from the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the UN team responsible for combating non-communicable diseases. 

The aim of the visit to Jordan is to conduct a study on investing in mental health in cooperation with the Ministry of Health to improve mental health services in the country, the Jordan News, Agency, Petra, reported.

Hawari discussed and the delegation went over the current state of mental health in Jordan and the services provided by the Ministry of Health in this field. 

He highlighted the ministry’s efforts to improve and facilitate access to mental health services at various levels.

Health insurance covers persons with disabilities, including people with mental disabilities, he said. “This allows insured persons to benefit from a range of health services, such as diagnosis, assessment, treatment, hospitalisation and follow-up,” the health minister said.

The Ministry of Health, in partnership with WHO and International Medical Corps, has established mental health clinics, community clinics and inpatient units in various hospitals and health centres. This initiative has improved access to mental health services in Jordan. 

Health professionals were also trained in the Mental Health Gap Action Programme  which integrates mental health into general healthcare, Petra reported.

Jamila Al Raabi, WHO Representative in Jordan, and Randa Abu Al Hassan, UNDP Resident Representative, emphasised that mental health is a human right and is essential for achieving sustainable development.