The Ministry of Health and Population expands its services for people

 Background: Why This Initiative?

• As part of the state’s efforts to support vulnerable groups, the Ministry aims to ensure the right of people with disabilities to receive comprehensive medical care, facilitate procedures, and expand coverage.
   

• This step coincides with Egypt’s celebration of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (December 3), highlighting the government’s commitment to inclusive opportunities and equal rights.

Who Are Eligible?

According to the Ministry, the eligible groups for the Integrated Services Card include:
 

• Amputees (one or more limbs)

• Quadriplegia

• Cerebral palsy

• Muscular dystrophy

• Polio (affecting one or more limbs)

• Blindness

• Multiple disabilities

• Down syndrome

• Intellectual disabilities (based on IQ assessment)

• Autism spectrum disorder

 Services Provided by the Ministry

The Ministry offers free and comprehensive medical services for people with disabilities through the Integrated Services Card. 

Key services include:

• Medical care in Ministry-affiliated hospitals and clinics. 

• Specialized dental services for children with disabilities in some governorates, e.g., Beni Suef offers weekly dental clinics. 

• Provision of assistive devices and support according to disability type, coordinated with relevant authorities. 

 How Are These Services Activated?

• Issuing the Integrated Services Card, which enables beneficiaries to access services, with eligibility criteria clearly defined.

• Cards and services are distributed across all governorates, ensuring easy access without geographic barriers. 

 Integration with Broader Disability Policies

• Alongside health services, the Ministry of Social Solidarity issues support cards, financial aid, assistive devices, special education, scholarships, and community integration support. 

• Efforts are also made to facilitate interaction with government agencies (e.g., issuing official documents for the visually impaired).

• These measures form part of a comprehensive vision to integrate people with disabilities into society and secure their rights in health, education, employment, and dignified living. 

 Why Is This Step Important?

• Equal opportunities: People with disabilities often face difficulties accessing healthcare or basic services; streamlined and accessible services reduce social and economic disparities.

• Improved quality of life: Regular care, rehabilitation, and assistive devices help integrate individuals into daily life and provide greater independence.

• Comprehensive support: The focus is not only on treatment but also rehabilitation, education, and social assistance — reflecting a holistic, human-centered approach.

• Reducing burdens: Lessens financial and emotional stress on families and society by enabling active participation and independence.

Expanding services for people with disabilities through comprehensive care, Integrated Services Cards, and medical and rehabilitative services nationwide is a crucial step towards a more inclusive and equitable society.

Integrated efforts with other ministries and agencies (Social Solidarity — Interior — Education — Rehabilitation) aim to turn disability from a challenge into an opportunity for empowerment and effective societal inclusion.