Options has a strong track record of working in the Middle East. See below for Options' significant programmes in the region.

 

 

• Voucher Management Agency for the Reproductive Health Programme. Options is leading a new innovative project in Yemen which aims to increase the use of quality maternal and reproductive health services provided by public and private providers through a voucher system. Yemen has the highest rates of maternal mortality in the Middle East, the lowest level of antenatal coverage, and low levels of births attended by skilled health staff. Access to health services varies greatly and for many poor households, the cost of medical care is prohibitive and the main reason for not seeking care. Through the distribution of vouchers, poor Yemeni women and their families will be able to access a package of reproductive health services covering pre- and postnatal care, safe delivery and family planning free at the point of delivery, thereby contributing to improved physical, social and economic wellbeing. Options is working with Yemen’s Ministry for Public Health and Population and Yemeni partners Yamaan and Medical Insurance Specialists to manage the voucher system. The project is for three years and is funded through German Financial Cooperation. Read more about the programme.

 

• Syria Health Sector Modernisation Programme, 2003–2010. Options provided technical assistance as part of an EC-funded programme of support to improve the health status of the Syrian population by increasing the equity, efficiency and quality of the health system. Options provided expertise in human resource development and quality assurance, primary health care, health management training, health financing and insurance, public expenditure, accreditation processes and the legal environment. The programme supported reform initiatives instigated by the Ministry of Health, including strengthening policy, planning and regulatory capacity; improving the health care delivery system; and enhancing management capacity at the facility level. The programme established quality assurance and accreditation processes and developed a framework for sustainable financing of the health sector.