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Emory University

Publication Date

Fall 2017

Program Name

Morocco: Multiculturalism and Human Rights

Abstract

Morocco is in the midst of an epidemiologic transition ushered in by reduced fertility rates and extended life expectancy. Unlike two decades ago, today’s leading cause of death is chronic disease. In 2006, Moroccan officials launched Vision 2020, a comprehensive plan that seeks to expand access to healthcare and reign back the prevalence of noncommunicable disease, among other goals related to development. Through qualitative interviews with the residents of Tarmilat and Oulmes, a rural community south of Khamissat, this paper represents the first assessment of Vision 2020’s performance thus far to combat the spread of type 2 diabetes among rural Moroccans. This paper evaluates type 2 diabetes care in Tarmilat and Oulmes using three indicators: (1) degree of individual health agency, (2) access to capable healthcare facilities, and (3) attainment of healthcare coverage or insurance. The interviews demonstrate limited health agency, specifically regarding primary prevention methods. In addition, the paper finds that healthcare facilities in the Oulmes and Tarmilat region lack the human resources to operate at full capacity, although they may be equipped with adequate technology. Lastly, despite increased access to healthcare coverage, in practice, patients often struggle to attain secondary care due to wait times, bribery, and supply shortages. This preliminary analysis shows evidence that health officials are making strides in rural healthcare, however much work is needed to bridge the gap between policy and practice. To address the most urgent healthcare failings, this paper recommends that officials at the Ministry of Health make Morocco’s human resource deficit their utmost priority.

Disciplines

Dietetics and Clinical Nutrition | Medical Education | Medical Humanities | Rural Sociology

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