Uqayribat Health Centre Rehabilitation: The Sole Medical Facility for 60,000 Residents in Eastern Hama

Rehabilitation works have begun at the health centre in the town of Uqayribat, eastern Hama countryside, as part of the Fidaa li-Hama campaign. The project aims to restore medical services to a region that has endured a near-total absence of healthcare infrastructure throughout years of displacement.

The Only Medical Point for a Vast Area

The Uqayribat Health Centre is the sole medical facility available to approximately 80 surrounding villages, home to around 60,000 residents, according to Rasha Maghmuma of the Engineering Studies Department at the Hama Health Directorate. The centre spans 400 square metres, incorporates accessibility features for people with disabilities, and is currently being fitted with the necessary equipment and services.

Daily Hardship While Awaiting Completion

Residents are currently forced to travel between 50 and 80 kilometres to reach hospitals in Salamiyah or Hama city for medical care. Local healthcare is limited to a single dispensary staffed by one nurse, according to Uqayribat Municipal Head Hafez al-Hammoud. Residents have called for the centre to be equipped, upon opening, with an ambulance, medical and nursing staff, and an adequate supply of medicines.

Joint Oversight and Full Funding

The Fidaa li-Hama campaign is covering the full cost of the project, while the Hama Health Directorate oversees quantities and disbursements. A detailed field assessment and comprehensive technical study were conducted prior to the start of works, with local labour drawn from the community. Delays were attributed to contracting procedures with the implementing organisation and difficulties in securing workers given the area's remoteness.

Next Phase: Staffing and Equipment

Upon completion of rehabilitation, the Health Directorate plans to recruit new physicians and supply the centre with medical devices and medicines, enabling it to offer most essential health services. The centre has been upgraded to Level 3 (Category C) classification in recognition of its strategic importance, necessitating additional structural improvements. The prospect of building new health centres in neighbouring villages remains limited by the absence of land designated for the health sector.