Cairo: Egypt's General Authority for Health Accreditation and Regulation (GAHAR) signed 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.

According to State Information Service Egypt, GAHAR head Ahmed Taha mentioned that the agreement will assist facilities in improving quality standards and hasten their inclusion in the system. This initiative aims to enhance patient experience and ensure safer, high-quality care, as noted in a Cabinet statement.

The agreement includes provisions for low-interest loans to clinics, medical centres, labs, imaging facilities, and hospitals. These loans will be used to purchase equipment, upgrade infrastructure, and renovate spaces. Additionally, facilities will receive training, technical support, and access to GAHAR's National Guide for Medical Equipment to meet accreditation requirements.

NBE Chairman Mohamed El-Etreby stated that the bank considers healthcare a key pillar of sustainable development. He emphasized that the partnership supports Egypt's goal of universal health coverage and empowers small and medium-sized enterprises in the sector.