Minister of Health Visits Hospital Amid Protests
Minister of Health Ameen Tahtawi visited the Hassan II Regional Hospital in Agadir following protests from residents criticizing the facility and referring to it as a “death hospital.”
During his visit, Tahtawi assessed the operations of various departments to identify ways to enhance patient care. In a statement to the press, he expressed solidarity with the residents of Agadir and the Souss-Massa region concerning reported issues at the hospital.
The minister noted that a central committee from the Ministry of Health and Social Protection was dispatched to evaluate the situation and propose urgent solutions. He announced the dismissal of the hospital’s director, along with several officials from the regional health authority.
Among the issues identified were frequent staff absences and a shortage of equipment and medications. Tahtawi stated that malfunctioning devices would undergo maintenance and that a new CT scanner would be acquired soon to alleviate pressure on radiology and laboratory services. Additionally, he mentioned plans to contract new companies for security, reception, and cleaning services.
Regarding infrastructure, Tahtawi revealed that a budget of 200 million dirhams has been allocated for the refurbishment and equipping of the Hassan II Regional Hospital in partnership with the Souss-Massa Regional Council. Construction is set to commence in the coming weeks while ensuring the continuity of hospital services.
He also emphasized ongoing efforts to expedite the establishment of a university hospital in Agadir, which will provide new services and multiple medical specialties with a capacity exceeding 900 beds. This facility is expected to relieve pressure on the Hassan II hospital and other regional hospitals.
Furthermore, Tahtawi confirmed that a committee from the Ministry’s General Inspectorate has been tasked with investigating recent fatalities reported at the Hassan II Regional Hospital.
