Iraqi health authorities have decided to build 18 hospitals throughout the country with an overall budget of US$2 billion, the Health Ministry announced Tuesday.

The majority of the hospitals will have at least 100-bed capacities that will be constructed according to world standards, said Adil Mohsen, General Inspector at the ministry told AKnews.

After years of war and fighting, Iraq is suffering from a shortcoming in services in many areas including the health sector.

There are 321 hospitals public and private hospitals in Iraq with a total medical staff of 25,000, according to the Ministry of Health. On Sunday, the Ministry said the country needed some 7,000 anesthetists.

Mohsen said among the hospitals will be “specialized hospitals for heart disease, nervous system, burns, and maternity."

The Ministry of Health announced earlier this month that its 2012 budget exceeds US$6 billion. The Ministry said it will spend the money on building 150 clinics, contracting with more doctors including Indian medical practitioners.

By Jaafar al-Wannan

Source: AKnews