Beyruth
Adaptation and development of the initial project (2023 and 2024)
The neighbourhoods of Dora, Bauchrieh and Bourj Hammoud are among the most underprivileged areas of Beirut. For several years now, our partner in the field has been setting up a system to help the poorest people in these neighbourhoods to obtain quality medicines prescribed by their doctors. In collaboration with trusted pharmacies, it enables these people to obtain prescribed medicines free of charge.
However, as the needs are growing, PSF Switzerland has been asked to collaborate in this humanitarian aid project. An assessment mission in the field was carried out in spring 2023 and identified two new partners: the Saint Maroun dispensary and the psychiatric hospital of la Croix. These health centres have been integrated into the initial project, enabling aid to be extended to a larger number of disadvantaged people in Beirut’s underprivileged neighbourhoods.
The project is divided into three parts:
Financial support for the purchase of quality medicines
Thanks to the support of PSF Switzerland, patients have free access to quality medicines.
Scientific support by the volunteer pharmacist of PSF Switzerland
The Rational Use of Medicines (RUM) is at the core of PSF Switzerland’s intervention. The prescriptions of beneficiary patients will be discussed with the treating doctors in order to ensure the best possible treatment. From 2023, a volunteer pharmacist will be present in Beirut to maximise support for the pharmacies involved and skills transfer.
Hiring a local social worker to complement and strengthen the existing team in the field
The objective here is to assess the social situation of the families as effectively as possible and to adapt the financial support provided in the best possible way.