Tunisia's Healthcare System Faces Challenges as 200-250 Doctors Leave the Public Sector Annually
Between 200 and 250 doctors leave the public sector in Tunisia every year due to retirement or migration, according to the Minister of Health, Mustapha Ferjani. This highlights the need to accelerate reforms to preserve the sector's human resources.
Integrating Advanced Technologies to Improve Healthcare
The Minister stated that his department is working to integrate advanced technologies and artificial intelligence into the healthcare system to ensure equal access to care, particularly in inland regions. He specified that the development of tele-radiology, 24/7 access to scanners, and the expansion of telemedicine services will enable citizens to access rare specialties (such as pediatric psychiatry, dermatology, rheumatology, or diabetology) without having to travel long distances.
Modernizing the Healthcare System through Digitalization
Ferjani recalled that these projects are part of the President's vision to modernize the healthcare system using digital technology and artificial intelligence to improve diagnosis and patient care. He added that several Tunisian hospitals are already using robotic surgery, while artificial intelligence is being gradually integrated into medical diagnostic tools, increasing patient trust.
Addressing Human Resource Challenges
In terms of human resources, the Minister revealed that while the public sector welcomes 900 to 1,000 new doctors every year, it loses up to 250 due to retirement or migration. This requires new incentive policies, improved working conditions, modernized equipment, and ongoing training programs for engineers and doctors.
Fostering National Competencies in AI and Robotics
Ferjani emphasized that the current strategy no longer relies solely on importing technologies but focuses on developing national competencies that can master artificial intelligence and medical robotics. This ensures that doctors remain in control of technology, rather than the other way around.
Digitalization: A Key to Improved Healthcare
In conclusion, the Minister stated that digitalizing the healthcare sector will enable better patient follow-up, greater equity in access to care, and an overall improvement in quality of life. Artificial intelligence has become a strategic tool in the service of public health, and its integration is crucial to addressing the challenges facing Tunisia's healthcare system.
