Afghan-Uzbek Hospital Emerges as Alternative to Treatment in Pakistan
As the demand for specialized healthcare services continues to grow in Afghanistan, the Afghan-Uzbek Joint Market Hospital has become a major treatment center, providing specialized medical care to patients from across the country through its 25 specialty departments and more than 40 doctors.
According to hospital officials, more than 134,000 patients from different parts of Afghanistan have visited the facility for treatment over the past two years.
Azizbek, the hospital’s public relations officer, said: “More than 134,000 patients have visited this hospital over the past two years. We have at least 25 specialized departments at this hospital.”
Most patients visiting the hospital seek treatment in the fields of neurology, orthopedics, and urology.
According to the hospital, most of its patients come from Afghanistan’s northern provinces.
Dr. Janbek of the Afghan-Uzbek Joint Market Hospital said: “Most patients coming from Afghanistan suffer from diabetes, goiter (thyroid disorders), and hereditary diseases.”
Najibullah, a resident of Faryab, said: “The prices are reasonable and not so high that people should worry. The doctors provide good examinations and treatment, and I am currently waiting for my medical examination.”
Some patients say the hospital’s proximity to the Afghan border has made healthcare more accessible while reducing both the cost and time required for treatment compared with traveling to other countries.
They also called for the hospital’s services and facilities to be expanded.
Ahmadullah, a resident of Balkh, said: “The cost of traveling to Pakistan, India, or even Iran used to be very high. Now, thankfully, the services here are good and the hospital is also close to us.”
Mohammad Khan, a resident of Jowzjan, said: “It is good in every respect, especially economically. It is close, the treatment results are good, patients are properly examined, the equipment is advanced, and the doctors are highly skilled.”
As traveling abroad, particularly to Pakistan, has become increasingly difficult for many Afghans seeking medical treatment, a growing number of patients are turning to the Afghan-Uzbek Joint Market Hospital for specialized healthcare.
