Prime Minister Inaugurates Advanced MRI and CT Center at Ibn Al-Bitar Hospital, Directs Free Services

Prime Minister Ali Faleh Al-Zaidi today inaugurated the Al-Rahman Center for MRI and Helical CT scans at Baghdad's Ibn Al-Bitar Hospital for Cardiac Surgery, directing all services to be free for citizens. This center, Iraq's first, features a globally state-of-the-art diagnostic system employing artificial intelligence. Its opening aligns with the government's drive for a qualitative leap in healthcare and localizing advanced medical services. Al-Zaidi, with the Health Minister, toured the facility, inspecting modern equipment and operations. He affirmed these technologies are a true investment in citizen health, enhancing diagnosis, accelerating procedures, and reducing the need for overseas specialized tests, thereby easing patient burdens. Meeting hospital management and staff, Al-Zaidi directed the center to operate 24/7 with fully free services. He mandated an electronic system for patient requests and appointments, ensuring swift test completion, preventing delays, and achieving fairness and transparency. He emphasized government commitment to health sector development, setting "Health First" as the stage's slogan. He stressed enhancing care and providing the latest medical technology in institutions, ensuring Iraqi citizens receive comprehensive local diagnostic and treatment services, per global standards. Al-Zaidi urged continued development of health institution management, leveraging international expertise. He also called for expediting a fund for intractable diseases, activating the Health Ministry's Inspection and Oversight, and focusing on rare medical specializations. He clarified an advanced health system relies on efficient management, qualified staff, and sound governance, not just buildings or equipment. Doctors and staff at Ibn Al-Bitar Hospital expressed deep appreciation for the Prime Minister's attention, viewing it as support for health institutions and personnel, and his on-site review of the hospital's needs and service development.