The Egyptian government supports a multi-tiered health care system. The system, however, is being eroded by the pressures of a growing population. Basic health care is free and medicines are available in remote villages. Private nursing homes and specialized treatments are available only to the wealthy.

Egypt has received awards from organizations such as WHO (World Health Organization) and World Rotary for its role in providing children's vaccinations. The government is also working to improve children's health, specifically in preventing diseases such as polio, diphtheria and measles. The incidence of these has declined and the newborn mortality rate is dropping.

The government has pioneered several family planning programs, expanded mobile clinics to remote areas and encouraged the private sector to participate in the Health Insurance Authority. Egyptian hospitals are equipped with modern technology and the medical personnel are highly qualified.

The medical profession is considered a prestigious occupation. More women are becoming doctors every year. Gaining entrance into medical college is highly competitive. Some qualified surgeons and physicians have emigrated to other countries.

Did you know? In addition to a modern health care system, many Egyptians in rural villages use herbal medicines. Midwives, or daiyas may deliver babies at home. These midwives are sometimes paid by the government health department.