Amman: The Ministry of Health on Monday launched Jordan's first National Type 1 Diabetes Registry during the Jordan Health Forum. The initiative, the first of its kind in the Kingdom, is the result of joint cooperation between the Ministry of Health, the Royal Health Awareness Society, and Electronic Health SolutionsCo EHS.
According to Jordan News Agency, the ministry's Secretary-General for Administrative and Technical Affairs, Ilham Khraisat, emphasized the ministry's commitment to addressing diabetes through various programs aimed at surveillance, prevention, early detection, health education, and providing treatment services such as telemedicine. These efforts are intended to reduce incidence and mortality rates and improve the quality of life for patients.
Khraisat highlighted that the registry offers an integrated national digital platform, enabling decision-makers to formulate policies based on accurate data. This supports early detection, prevention programs, and equitable resource allocation. Additionally, the registry provides researchers with certified data to further scientific research and enhance Jordan's standing in the field of diabetes care.
She further stated that this initiative is part of the ministry's strategy to digitize and expand noncommunicable disease registries, which are crucial for evidence-based decision-making and align with the digital transformation goals of the Economic Modernization Vision. The initiative reflects a people-centered healthcare approach, integrating psychological and community support into health services.
Electronic Health Solutions CEO Omar Ayesh described the registry as a significant advancement in patient care, enabling the tracking of cases from diagnosis through treatment and follow-ups. This generates accurate reports that aid in planning and policymaking based on evidence.
Royal Health Awareness Society Director-General Amal Ireifij noted that the registry idea stemmed from research assessing the situation of those living with Type 1 diabetes, considering factors such as age, distribution, and available services. The registry is part of the society's Type 1 Diabetes Awareness Project, supported by the World Diabetes Foundation.
Ireifij added that the society continues to support numerous schools and health centers across Jordan by organizing awareness programs and conducting glucose tests, ensuring broad outreach with specially designed materials.
The registry complements the ongoing Type 1 Diabetes Project, focusing on building supportive, stigma-free communities by training teachers, medical staff, and youth volunteers. It aligns with efforts to develop national medical registries through the "JHR" platform, aiming to unify health information and enhance data usage to improve health services, marking a significant step in Jordan's digital health transformation.
Coinciding with World Diabetes Day, the launch featured a documentary on employees living with diabetes, recognition of youth competition winners for digital awareness materials, and a public awareness walk around the ministry. The event also offered health stations with free tests, including HbA1c, eye tests, stress-risk assessments, and nutritional and psychological support.