Community well-being high on agenda in Suhar

SUHAR: In a recent achievement in health sector in Batinah north, Sohar gained international recognition from the World Health Organization (WHO) for promoting well being and sustainable health for citizens.

Suhar is among the first cities in the Eastern Mediterranean Region of the World Health Organisation to adopt the Health Cities programme, established in 2005 and approved in 2007 under the supervision of the Ministry of Health, aiming to provide comprehensive healthcare and promote sustainable well-being practices.

This initiative, a collaborative effort of various governmental and private institutions, is a result to community-driven healthcare advancements.

The initiative's primary goal is to ensure access to quality healthcare services for citizens, fostering a sustainable health ecosystem.

Dr Najah bint Mohammed al Zadjaliya, a consultant in family and community medicine and a member of the Health Council for Suhar City, as well as the director of the Executive Office for Suhar Health City said: ”The programme is one of the initiatives by the World Health Organization implemented in the Sultanate of Oman under the supervision of the Ministry of Health. It serves as an excellent tool and platform through which all governmental sectors collaborate with civil society organisations and the private sector to engage with the local community in addressing social determinants of health. This goes beyond providing healthcare services and effectively contributes to making improvements in the local environment and public facilities and enhancing people's well-being and the quality of their lives."

The city also initiated the Health-Promoting Schools programme, promoting healthy shopping habits for children, and various sports programs and activities that enhance mental health targeting different segments of society.

Dr Najah said: "A series of studies and research in the health and environmental fields have been initiated, encouraging scientific research through various research contracts within Al Batinah region. These efforts aim to use research outcomes in enhancing lifestyles, ensuring sustainable health and making decisions related to the environment, health, and society."