Residents of Bougraâ, in Laâyoune province, have lost access to their local rural health centre after it was closed, according to the Association for Human Rights (AMDH). The AMDH’s local branch raised the issue in a statement dated 11 August. The group said the closure was preventing people in the commune from getting healthcare close to home.
The closure comes as health authorities continue to roll out Territorial Health Groups (GSTs). The reform aims to improve healthcare services and make them easier for people to access.
The AMDH said the closure did not fit with that goal, especially in rural areas where health services can already be limited.
The group also questioned the reassignment of the doctor who had been working at the Bougraâ centre.
The doctor was appointed to lead the SBBA health centre, the AMDH said. The centre already has about 20 qualified and experienced healthcare workers, according to the group.
The AMDH is calling on health authorities to reopen the Bougraâ centre and make sure healthcare services continue.
The group also wants an explanation for the doctor’s reassignment. It is calling for healthcare workers to be shared more fairly between rural and urban areas.
The AMDH said health reforms should be judged by their effect on people, especially those living in rural communities.
“Health is a right for everyone and not a privilege linked to where they live,” the group said.
