Ministry of Health held the fourth Mental Health Conference entitled” Mental Health Remotely during COVID-19 Pandemic” organized by the General Department of Mental Health. Deputy Ministry of Health Dr. Yousef Abu Al-Rish illustrated during the opening session the challenges and the suggested solutions for the Gazan community to confront the outbreak of the Covid 19 pandemic, especially at this critical stage.
Dr. Abu Al-Rish added that after seven months of delaying the virus spread in the Gaza community, we have had a chance to prepare well, train cadres, and get acquainted with other nations’ experiences, as we have accumulated experiences for this expected outbreak. Dr. Abu Al-Rish: We face significant challenges imposed by the Israeli blockade, which affected all areas of life, including the health system.
Dr. Abu Al-Rish appreciated the progress of the mental health services at the Ministry of Health and the National Center for Mental Health project, which is implemented with a fund from the Aman Malaysia Foundation. The staff shall be enrolled in a mental health diploma, update service protocols and psychological care, and integrate its services into primary health care services.