Iran To Supply Free Food Supplements For Expecting Mothers

Tehran, Aug 18, IRNA - Food supplements and vitamins essential for the health of pregnant women and their infants will be given to them free of charge for the first time in the country. Zahra Abdollahi, deputy health minister for nutrition, added that these supplements include iron, folic acid and multivitamin minerals, wrote Mondayˈs edition of ˈIran Dailyˈˈ. “Expectant mothers will be provided with the supplements as of August 23,” she said, adding that children will be given iron supplements, vitamin A and D free of charge to help them develop healthy bones and muscles. People will receive nutrients through health networks, including health houses, across the nation. First Vice-President Es’haq Jahangiri recently said that healthcare is among the govtˈs top priorities, and financial resources accruing from the rise in energy prices and people’s refusal to take cash subsidy will be used for healthcare improvement. “Many people did not seek treatment due to the high costs associated with healthcare services. Many rejected essential surgeries because they lacked insurance. But the implementation of Health Overhaul Plan has increased insurance coverage and eased people’s access to healthcare services,” he said. He noted that over $900 million have been allocated to health and labor, cooperatives and social affairs to improve the wellbeing of Iranians and ensure food security. “We believe access to inexpensive healthcare services is every Iranian’s right,” he said, adding that to meet the goal, insurance coverage is being extended. Jahangiri added that constant supervision will ensure health plans are being implemented properly. Health Overhaul Plan is among the top priorities of the government and financial sources will be provided for its full implementation.