BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghanistan – Afghan national army and Afghan border police conducted a medical engagement May 20-21 in Kareyz-e-Elyas, Gulran District, Herat province.
The engagement was held in response to a request for medical supplies and doctors from the ANA hospital in Kareyz-e-Elyas, according to the ANA leadership.
Two doctors from the Zafar ANA hospital came out and provided medical treatment to more than 1,000 Afghan citizens at the village’s health clinic. In addition, the ANA doctors brought up to $10,000 worth of medical supplies for the clinic to use.
“The ANA is for the people and with the people,” said Col. Fiaz Mohammend, ANA physician. “We were happy to provide [health] care to our citizens.”
The ABP, under command of Maj. Hamadullah, 4th zone Afghan ABP, sent 40 soldiers to provide security to the surrounding area while the doctors provided medical care.
The hospital commander, Col. Azim, also ordered the physicians to take down names and write consults for any citizen needing further health care.
“I will not turn away any Afghans requiring further help,” Azim said.
He also said the Ministry of Public Health is designed to provide free medical care; however, due to logistical problems, poor terrain, and insurgent threats, this service does not reach all citizens, especially those in austere locations.
The involvement of the ANA and ABP during the joint medical engagement will strengthen the ties between the local citizens and the Afghan national security forces, as well as, demonstrate the government of Afghanistan’s willingness to support the local populace.