Egypt's General Authority for Health Accreditation and Regulation (GAHAR) signed on Tuesday a protocol with the National Bank of Egypt (NBE) to finance private healthcare providers seeking accreditation and integration into the country's universal health insurance system. GAHAR head Ahmed Taha said the deal will help facilities improve quality standards and accelerate their inclusion in the system, enhancing patient experience and ensuring safer, high-quality care, according to a Cabinet statement. The agreement provides low-interest loans for clinics, medical centres, labs, imaging facilities, and hospitals to purchase equipment, upgrade infrastructure, and renovate spaces. Facilities will also receive training, technical support, and access to GAHAR's National Guide for Medical Equipment to meet accreditation requirements. NBE Chairman Mohamed El-Etreby said the bank views healthcare as a key pillar of sustainable development, adding that the partnership supports Egypt's goal of universal health coverage and empowers small and medium-sized enterprises in the sector. Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English Subediting: Y.Yasser
