Uqayribat Health Centre Rehabilitation

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 had limited healthcare infrastructure throughout years of displacement.

The Only Medical Point for a Wide 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.

Service Gaps While Awaiting Completion

Residents currently 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 requested that the centre 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 field assessment and a 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 to 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, which requires 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.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many people does Uqayribat Health Centre serve?

The centre is the sole medical facility for approximately 80 surrounding villages, home to around 60,000 residents.

How far do residents currently travel for medical care?

Residents travel between 50 and 80 kilometres to reach hospitals in Salamiyah or Hama city.

What is the size of the centre and who is funding the works?

The centre spans 400 square metres, and the Fidaa li-Hama campaign is covering the full cost of the project, with the Hama Health Directorate overseeing quantities and disbursements.

What is planned after the rehabilitation is completed?

The Health Directorate plans to recruit new physicians and supply the centre with medical devices and medicines. The centre has been upgraded to Level 3 (Category C) classification in recognition of its strategic importance.