The Order of Malta in Lebanon has 7 fully operational Mobile Medical Units (MMU) spread across the country, with the latest one launched in the Chouf area.
Following the 2006 war, we realized the need for Mobile Medical Units to reach people in remote villages, especially those unable to access our health centers. Therefore, 2 MMUs were set up in Siddikine and Ain Ebel providing medical consultations and essential medications in remote areas of South Lebanon.
The next 2 MMUs were established in response to the Syrian crisis. The Lebanese healthcare system was already stretched before the influx of Syrians and relied heavily on the private sector. Displaced Syrians face several obstacles when accessing healthcare, including high service costs, geographical challenges, and restricted coverage criteria.
The presence of displaced Syrians particularly affected the North and the Beqaa governorate. In response, 1 MMU was launched in Akkar (North) in 2014, followed by another in Kefraya (West Beqaa) in 2016.
Most recently, an additional MMU was launched in the Chouf area, further strengthening our outreach to underserved communities across Lebanon.
The main goals of the Mobile Medical Unit Project are to:
- Improve the access of the Syrians displaced and the needy host communities to primary and secondary health care services given the difficulties faced when moving from areas.
- Strengthen preventive health capacities among the population by promoting proper hygiene practices.
The main services provided by a Mobile Medical Unit are as follow:
Primary healthcare services:
- Services provided directly by the Mobile Medical Unit: Medical consultations, preliminary diagnosis, medical drugs….
- Services provided through a referral system from the Mobile Medical Unit to a medical Center of the Order of Malta for simple laboratory tests, specialized consultations or to a contracted laboratory tests for advanced exams.
Secondary healthcare services:
- Services provided through a referral system from the Mobile Medical Unit to a hospital in the area of operation of the Mobile Medical Unit.
