Cairo: The Cabinet's media center published a set of infographics on its social media platforms highlighting the steady progress of the Universal Health Insurance System toward achieving health equity and providing comprehensive healthcare coverage for all citizens without discrimination, while the state bears the cost for those unable to pay.

According to State Information Service Egypt, this comes as part of the state's ongoing efforts to complete the comprehensive health insurance system under its national vision to achieve health justice and improve the quality of services provided to all social groups. The plan includes upgrading healthcare infrastructure and enhancing the efficiency of medical facilities in line with the latest international standards, aiming to deliver a qualitative leap in healthcare services and build a sustainable system that meets citizens' aspirations.

The infographics indicated that well-studied preparations are underway to launch the second phase of the system. These include allocating EGP 3.3 billion to fast-track the inclusion of Minya Governorate, with trial operations scheduled to begin in April 2026. The second phase will cover five governorates-Minya, Matrouh, Damietta, Kafr El Sheikh, and North Sinai-while the inclusion of Alexandria is under consideration.

They added that the investment cost of the second phase exceeds EGP 115 billion and targets more than 12 million citizens, with Minya residents accounting for around 60% of beneficiaries. The phase will include 70 hospitals distributed as follows: 26 in Minya, 18 in Kafr El Sheikh, 9 in Matrouh, 9 in Damietta, and 8 in North Sinai.

The system was first launched on a trial basis in Port Said in July 2019 and officially inaugurated in November of the same year. The first phase covered six governorates-Port Said, Ismailia, Luxor, South Sinai, Suez, and Aswan-with more than 6 million citizens registered and around 5.2 million benefiting from its services, at a total cost exceeding EGP 53 billion.

Regarding achievements, more than 105 million medical and treatment services have been delivered through 328 healthcare facilities, including 285 primary care units and centers, in addition to 43 hospitals and medical complexes.