The Holy Family Hospital, operated by the Order of Malta in Bethlehem, West Bank, is a beacon of hope in an area plagued by economic and political strife. The hospital provides top-notch maternity care in a region where such services are scarce, offering a Catholic identity and ethics to all patients, regardless of their ability to pay. This commitment to quality care has established longstanding trust between the local Christian and Muslim communities. The hospital has employed over 220 local Palestinians, providing reliable salaries and security in a region where job opportunities are scarce.
The hospital strictly follows Catholic ethics regarding medical care, decorating the facility with religious imagery and providing care to patients based on their needs rather than their ability to pay. The Order of Malta’s commitment to helping those in need extends to offering subsidies and free treatments to patients who cannot afford medical care. The hospital has made adjustments to increase subsidies to 75%, allowing families to afford essential healthcare services. These subsidies, along with free treatments, are sustained through private donations collected from various countries.
Despite the ongoing economic and political challenges in the region, the Order of Malta has remained dedicated to providing quality healthcare to the people of Bethlehem. The hospital has faced financial constraints but has continued to prioritize paying its staff to ensure they can support their families. The Order of Malta’s work in Bethlehem is part of a larger humanitarian effort that spans across various countries and is funded through private donations. The organization aims to ensure that people can access essential healthcare services, regardless of their financial situation.
The Order of Malta, an ancient order of knighthood, operates Holy Family Hospital with a primary focus on delivering exceptional medical care to the people of Bethlehem. The organization’s commitment to serving the poor and the sick aligns with its long-standing mission to provide care and relief to those in need. Despite the challenges posed by conflicts in the region, the Order of Malta remains dedicated to its work and has no plans to leave the area. The hospital continues to provide essential services, including maternal care and treatment for high-risk pregnancies.
The staff at the hospital, predominantly local Palestinians, is crucial to the operation and success of Holy Family Hospital. The professionals working at the hospital, from doctors and nurses to technicians and custodians, play a vital role in ensuring that patients receive the care they need. The hospital’s Catholic teaching ethos has created an inclusive and diverse workplace, where Christian and Muslim staff work together to provide quality care to patients. As the hospital faces financial challenges, the focus remains on maintaining the high level of care and supporting the staff to ensure their financial stability.
The Holy Family Hospital, just steps away from where Jesus was born, remains a symbol of hope and resilience in a region marred by conflict and economic hardship. The hospital’s dedication to providing quality healthcare, regardless of patients’ ability to pay, showcases the compassionate and inclusive approach of the Order of Malta. As the hospital continues to operate amidst ongoing challenges, the organization remains committed to its mission of serving the vulnerable and improving the health and well-being of the community in Bethlehem.
