Public Health Crisis in Morocco: A Central Issue Ahead of Legislative Elections
In Morocco, public health has emerged as a pivotal topic in the lead-up to the legislative elections set for September 23. A year ago, the tragic deaths of eight women following cesarean sections at the regional hospital in Agadir highlighted significant deficiencies within the healthcare system, catalyzing the GenZ 212 protest movement. Despite ongoing reforms, access to healthcare remains a critical concern for countless Moroccans, who continue to grapple with the realities of a flawed system.
Mariam, a woman anxiously waiting outside the Ibn Rochd University Hospital in Casablanca, embodies the struggles many face. Her loved one lies in a coma following a road accident, and she worries not only about their health but also about the exorbitant costs of medical care. "We fear that we will be asked to pay for an operation at an outrageous price. In such a case, you either find the money, or the patient remains there; you have no choice," she explains. Many individuals in similar situations, she notes, are left seeking donors to help cover medical expenses.
The individual Mariam is visiting lacks compulsory health insurance (AMO), which means no reimbursement for the healthcare they receive. Moreover, Mariam considers the care provided to be severely inadequate. "If you enter the hospital, you will witness unimaginable scenes: people on the floor, one person with an open abdomen, another who has been amputated, blood everywhere... Inside, it is a catastrophe," she recounts with palpable distress.
Political Promises and Public Sentiment
As the legislative elections on September 23 approach, all major political parties are pledging to enhance public health, particularly regarding infrastructure and staffing. However, none have provided specific figures or clear commitments for these proposed measures. Hamid, a 19-year-old who visited the hospital for a jaw fracture, had a less negative experience. "I saw a doctor, had an X-ray; it was manageable. The only issue is the lack of organization," he shared. Nevertheless, when asked to choose between a public hospital and a private clinic, his answer was immediate: "I would go to the private sector. The care is better there." This sentiment underscores the rapid growth of private clinics in Morocco, which have seen a nearly 30% increase in number from 2017 to 2024.
As reported by fr.allafrica.com.
