Egypt is making strides in mental health care with the launch of a groundbreaking electronic platform,offering free services to all Egyptians and non-Egyptians residing in the country. This innovative initiative, the first of its kind in the Eastern Mediterranean region, aims to provide accessible and comprehensive mental health and addiction treatment to individuals of all ages.
Dr. Menen Abdel Maqsoud, Secretary-General of Mental Health and Addiction Treatment Hospitals at the Ministry of health and population, highlighted the platform’s key features. “The electronic mental health platform provides all psychological and addiction treatment services through a team of doctors who communicate with the patient around the clock,” she explained.
The platform leverages artificial intelligence to analyze data and provide personalized insights to users,ensuring complete confidentiality. It offers a wide range of services, including addiction treatment for adults and children, psychological treatment for the elderly, adults, and children, and support for individuals struggling with conditions like depression and anxiety.
“All services are free and are done by answering some questions and responding to them electronically, which constitutes an initial survey on mental illnesses, preparing a case report, and communicating with them for actual examination in clinics and undergoing treatment if necessary,” Dr. Abdel maqsoud elaborated.
This initiative aligns with President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi’s commitment to supporting mental health and early intervention for autism spectrum disorders. The program utilizes the M-Chat application, a globally recognized survey tool, to screen for autism during vaccination appointments at 18 months of age. This proactive approach aims to provide timely support and guidance to families.
Dr. Abdel Maqsoud encouraged all citizens to take advantage of the platform’s resources. “The electronic platform for mental health and addiction treatment aims to provide free mental health and addiction treatment services for all age groups of Egyptians and non-egyptians residing in egypt,” she emphasized,adding,”calling for all citizens should visit the platform and benefit from the various services provided by the General Secretariat of Mental Health and Addiction Treatment (here).”
The General Secretariat of Mental Health and Addiction Treatment actively engages with therapists on the platform, fostering continuous advancement and addressing technical challenges to ensure the highest quality of service. The platform has already seen significant engagement, with over 23,821 visitors, 22,383 registered users, and 9,507 completed questionnaires.
Recognizing the growing demand, the Ministry of Health and Population is committed to expanding mental health services nationwide.This includes developing a comprehensive map of existing hospitals, increasing the number of facilities in underserved areas, and training more qualified doctors and psychologists.
Dr. Abdel maqsoud highlighted the Secretariat’s dedication to providing holistic care. “The Secretariat has 24 hospitals and mental health centers in 15 governorates, providing services with the highest efficiency,” she stated.”We also organize educational seminars for patients and their families, along with entertaining and educational activities for children attending hospital clinics.”
This comprehensive approach underscores Egypt’s commitment to prioritizing mental well-being and ensuring that all citizens have access to the support they need.
## Egypt Pioneers Accessible Mental healthcare with Groundbreaking Electronic Platform
**World Today News Exclusive Interview with Dr. Menen Abdel Maqsoud**
**World Today News:** Egypt has taken a monumental step forward in addressing mental health concerns with the launch of a revolutionary online platform offering free services to all Egyptians and non-Egyptians residing in the country. Dr. Menen Abdel Maqsoud, Secretary-General of Mental Health and Addiction Treatment Hospitals at the Ministry of health and Population, joins us today to discuss this groundbreaking initiative.Dr. Maqsoud, welcome.
**Dr. Maqsoud:** Thank you for having me.
**World Today News:** This is the first platform of its kind in the Eastern Mediterranean region. Can you elaborate on the significance of this initiative and the need it addresses?
**Dr. Maqsoud:** Absolutely. In our region, access to mental health services has long been a significant challenge. Stigma, limited resources, and geographical barriers prevent many individuals from seeking timely help. This platform directly addresses these challenges by providing accessible, comprehensive, and around-the-clock care, regardless of location or socioeconomic status.
**World Today News:** The platform leverages cutting-edge technology, including artificial intelligence. how does this contribute to the effectiveness of the service?
**Dr. Maqsoud:** AI plays a critical role in personalizing the user experience. The platform analyzes data to understand individual needs and provide tailored treatment plans, ensuring each user receives the most appropriate support. Moreover, AI helps us better understand trends and patterns in mental health concerns within our population, allowing us to develop more effective prevention and intervention strategies.
**World Today News:** You mentioned that the platform offers a wide range of services. Can you provide some examples?
**Dr. Maqsoud:** Indeed. The platform caters to the diverse needs of our population. It offers addiction treatment programs for both adults and children,psychological support for elders,adults,and children facing various challenges,including anxiety,depression,and trauma.
**World Today News:** What measures are in place to ensure the privacy and security of user data on the platform?
**Dr. maqsoud:** We prioritize the privacy and confidentiality of our users. The platform is built with robust security protocols, and all data is encrypted and stored securely, adhering to the highest international standards.
**World today News:** this is a truly remarkable initiative. What are your hopes for the future of mental healthcare in Egypt following the launch of this platform?
**Dr. Maqsoud:** This platform is just the beginning. We envision a future where mental health care is integrated into all aspects of the healthcare system, accessible to all Egyptians without stigma or barriers. We aim to empower individuals to prioritize their mental well-being and create a society that values mental health as an integral part of overall health and well-being.
**World Today News:** Thank you, Dr. Maqsoud, for sharing your insights and shedding light on this crucial initiative. We commend the Ministry of Health and Population for taking this pioneering step towards a healthier and more inclusive Egypt.
**Dr. Maqsoud:** Thank you.
We hope this interview provides valuable data about the new mental health platform in Egypt.