Chapter Six On Public Health 38 - Hospitals Measures were increased last year to treat infectious diseases. The infectious disease hospital in Cairo is now being expanded and some of its buildings have been completed. As for the provinces, the budget for 1913 includes funds for the establishment of an infectious disease hospital in Zagazig. An agreement has been reached with the municipality of Alexandria to quickly begin the construction of an infectious disease hospital, which is a necessity.

The number of free dispensaries in the provinces was 42 in 1912, and treatments were given to 82,000 people. In 1911, treatments were given to 120,000 people.

Ophthalmic Aid Two new ophthalmic hospitals have been opened, one in Mansoura and the other in Beni Suef. The first is a donation from Badrawi Pasha, and the second was established with public funds and is now supported by the government. Provincial councils are establishing other ophthalmic hospitals in Zagazig, El-Halla El-Kobra, and Kafr El-Zayat. The expenses for the administration of the latter are covered by the provincial councils. The Zagazig hospital will be handed over to the Ministry of Health, as will the Sohag hospital, which is currently being built with public funds.

The Gharbia Provincial Council and the Assiut Provincial Council have established ophthalmic hospitals, and it is intended to establish other hospitals of this kind.

These developments are due to the increased attention given to ophthalmic aid. The general approach followed in all countries is, firstly, to establish permanent hospitals in the capital of each province, then to expand them and have them supported by the government. Secondly, to establish temporary hospitals with space for some patients to stay at their own expense, with the provincial council covering the costs. From these centers, activities branch out and expand, such as treating students.