New health care model unveiled in Jericho refugee camp – UNRWA press release

Family health teams kicked off in Jericho refugee camp
Jericho, West Bank – A pioneering new model of health care delivery was launched in Aqbat Jabr today, with UNRWA launching a “family health team” clinic in the refugee camp near Jericho. One of three pilot projects initiated by the Agency’s health programme in the West Bank, the clinic will improve and update primary health care services for Palestine refugees.

“I am proud to be here to support this important event, which shows once again our continuing commitment to reform,” said UNRWA’s Felipe Sanchez at the event. “The launch of the family health team aims will put patients at the centre of their health care, in line with international best practices.”

The family health team is a holistic approach to primary health care, connecting families to a team of doctors, nurses, and other medical professionals to address all of their health care needs. The patient and family build deeper relationships with their health care providers, who in turn get to know their patients and provide higher-quality services tailored to their needs.

As the teams are also exposed to the social, economic, and environmental factors influencing the family’s health, they are better able to mitigate potential future risks by promoting healthy behaviour. The project, also being piloted in the refugee camps of Arroub and Askar, is expected to expand to all UNRWA health clinics in the West Bank once complete.

Background information UNRWA provides assistance, protection and advocacy for nearly five million registered Palestine refugees in Jordan, Lebanon, Syria and the occupied Palestinian territory, pending a solution to their plight. The Agency’s services encompass education, health care, social safety-net, camp infrastructure and improvement, community support, microfinance and emergency response, including in times of armed conflict.

For more information please contact:

Ilona Kassissieh Public Information Officer Mobile: 054 216 8717 Cell: 02 589 0408