Reducing Economic Barriers to Accessing Health Services in Lebanon- REBAHS I

04.03.2020

The project aims to reduce the vulnerability of crisis-affected populations through a better and more effective provision of health and mental health services across Lebanon.

 

  • Budget: € 31.8 million 
  • Location: Lebanon (54 Primary Health Care Centres across regions)
  • Date of project: January 2018 - February 2020
  • Implementing Partner: Consortium led by International Medical Corps (IMC) and composed by Première Urgence - Aide Médicale Internationale (PU-AMI) and FPSC - Fundacion Promoción Social de la Cultura

Like most public services in Lebanon, the healthcare system is under immense strain due to the significant influx of refugees to the country. Aggravated by a healthcare system dominated by expensive private healthcare institutes varying in cost and quality, the situation makes it very difficult for vulnerable segments of the population to access healthcare services. This includes not only Syrian refugees to Lebanon, but also an increasing number of vulnerable Lebanese communities.

Cost, including the cost of transportation to reach healthcare facilities, stands as the most significant barrier to accessing health services. Other challenges include rejection of vulnerable Lebanese and Syrians by healthcare service providers; low quality of services at some facilities; lack of awareness of mental health issues; and discrepancy in service provision between different Primary Health Care Centres.

The European Union therefore supports the development of a strong, accessible and quality health infrastructure able to cater to the needs of the most vulnerable individuals and households.