In a groundbreaking move to address the escalating health crisis in Lebanon, the Ministry of Social Affairs, led by Minister Hector Hajjar, joined forces with the private sector, exemplified by the reputable commercial insurance company, Comin. The collaboration was formalized through the signing of a joint memorandum of understanding on the premises of the Ministry of Social Affairs, symbolizing a pivotal step towards inclusive health insurance for all.
Minister Hajjar, in his address following the signing, highlighted the dire circumstances Lebanon is grappling with—intense demand for health services, economic deterioration, and a surge in poverty cases. Recognizing the limitations of the state in meeting the escalating health service demands, Hajjar acknowledged the pivotal role of the private sector, emphasizing its ethical foundation and the proactive stance it takes in comparison to the state. The partnership, he expressed, stemmed from the quest for initiatives from ethically-driven private companies capable of pioneering change. The memorandum, he elaborated, is not merely a symbolic gesture but a tangible framework for enhanced and streamlined insurance services for vulnerable groups.
The agreement entails practical measures, including improved insurance services for target groups, financial and technical support for relevant projects, and the exchange of information and experiences to optimize joint efforts. Minister Hajjar outlined the memorandum’s specific focus on supporting individuals with disabilities, the elderly, and struggling families. The overarching goal is to ensure access to essential healthcare services, including treatment, emergency care, and hospitalization.
Comin’s Director General, Mr. Roger Zakkar, echoed the sentiment of collaboration and shared concerns. Expressing the company’s commitment to developing innovative insurance solutions for all Lebanese, Zakkar emphasized the importance of understanding the needs of people below the poverty line. The private sector’s engagement in studying this category and providing them with health services marks a significant departure from traditional approaches. Zakkar expressed gratitude for the serious study initiated by the ministry and underscored the company’s determination to extend this project to other ministries, aiming to realize the ambitious dream of comprehensive health insurance for everyone.
This memorandum signifies a landmark development in fostering a robust partnership between the government and the private sector. It stands as a testament to their shared dedication to improving societal well-being and fostering sustainable development. The collaborative efforts outlined in the agreement provide a beacon of hope in the challenging landscape of Lebanon’s healthcare system, promising a more inclusive and accessible future for all citizens.
