In a ceremony in the Gaza Strip, the new department of cardiology at the Nasser Medical Complex was reopened, following a renovation project funded by Qatar Red Crescent Society (QRCS).

"By supporting the project of renovating and furnishing the department, QRCS seeks to upgrade the cardiology services for the 650,000 population of the southern parts of the blockade," said QRCS office director in Gaza. "It is part of our plan to develop the health sector of Gaza, particularly in areas that lack adequate human and financial resources, including chronic diseases such as cardiac diseases".

According to Dr Nassar, the new project increased the capacity of the department of cardiology by 35%. The beds at the intensive care unit (ICU) have also increased by 60%. The department's area was expanded from 400sq m to 650sq m.

"At a total value of $284,000, the project involved procuring quantities of medical equipment and consumables, in order to improve specialized services, treatment and IVU for cardiac patients," he added.

Nasser Medical Complex general manager Dr Mohamed Zakkut commended QRCS's relentless efforts to support Gaza's medical sector, amid blockade and border closure, which had had a negative impact on the health conditions.

“The new project is a valuable contribution to the health services for patients. It will also help the medical personnel with medical supplies.”