Health services to groups with special needs in the Arab world: a review.

This paper examines the health services provided to the older population (especially those with physical limitations) and the people with mental illnesses in Arab countries and their evolution over the past 3 decades. The paper reviews utilization issues related to morbidity, transportation, patient-provider relationship, cost, stigma and organizational barriers that often impede access and compliance with the care provided or recommended. Health systems in the region need to acknowledge the specific needs of these patients in their national programmes. Raising awareness is an important step in this regard.