The success of the five-day free medical campaign held in Kut during Ashura has inspired several clinics and medical centers in Souk Al-Shuyoh and other parts of Dhi Qar governorate to follow suit and offer free or heavily discounted medical services since the month of Muharram.
The institutions participating in this public medical initiative include Al-Zahraa Nursing Clinic, Al-Ru’ya Optometry Center, Martyr Zaid Hameed Health Center, Noor al-Kawthar Dental Complex, Sumer Dental and Cosmetic Center, Dr. Mustafa Al-Saeedi Clinic and Awinat al-Mustafa Optometry Center.
Many clinics have completely waived consultation fees, while some have offered 50% discounts, benefiting a wide range of community members.
“Medicine is a profession built on compassion and dedication,” said Dr. Ahmed Jaberi, a dermatologist, in an interview with 964media. “In a period like Muharram that emphasizes solidarity and mutual assistance, it is our duty to provide free medical consultations and examinations.”
Jaberi pointed out that this medical action was carried out in coordination with multiple aid agencies, reflecting the concept that “health care is a basic human right.”
He added: “What we do is just part of our duty. We firmly believe that medical services should not be limited to those who can afford it, but should be available to everyone.”
In view of the enthusiastic response from the masses, some medical institutions decided to extend the free service after Ashura.
“Our decision to extend the service is out of respect for people participating in the memorial service for Imam Hussein (peace be upon him), and it is also a way of religious expression and return to God.” He explained.
Sumer Dental and Cosmetic Center has launched a mobile clinic to provide convenient services to the community, including free oral examinations and discounted treatment projects, covering root canal treatment, composite resin fillings, crowns, veneers, dental implants and orthodontic services.
“We have set up additional discounts for the families of martyrs and orphans,” said Ahmed Saleh, the center’s coordinator. “This charity campaign will start on the first day of Muharram and will last for a whole month.”
At the Martyrs Zaid Hamid Charity Medical Center, diagnosis and treatment services are provided with the help of modern medical equipment, such as ultrasound, electrocardiogram and eye examinations, all of which are free to the public.
“Our goal is to open our doors to the people of Souk Al-Shuyokh and provide free consultation and examination services,” said Dafir Hamid, the center’s director. “This initiative will start on the first day of Muharram and last until the tenth day, as a way for us to give back to the community.”