Hani Bahasan Okaz/Saudi Gazette JEDDAH — The director of the Jeddah Diabetes Center recently spoke out against the Health Affair Directorate for failing to properly maintain the 24-year-old center and allowing it to fall in a state of disrepair. The center treats more than 100 diabetes patients every day in an area comprising 400 sq. meters. At its disposal are 10 clinics, 19 doctors, nursing staff and administrative employees. Dr. Mohammad BuObaid, the center's director, said although patients are content with its services, the problems at the center can no longer be neglected. “The center does not even have computers that can be used to store patient information. Patient files are still being updated manually and stored in hard copy format. Despite repeated letters and verbal complaints to the director of Jeddah Health Affairs, Dr. Sami Badawood, we have only got unfulfilled promises. BuObaid went on to say that the number of patients who come to the center is increasing and if things don't improve soon, the center will soon be unable to cope. “It is the only diabetes center in Jeddah and there is no budget so it can be renovated and updated? The pharmacy we have is small and there is always a shortage of medicines; we only have one small laboratory that is overloaded and employees have to work extra hard to ensure all patient tests are completed on time," he said. Despite its shortcomings, the center has successfully treated countless patients. It also participated in a number of diabetes educational and awareness programs. Patients praised the center and staff but said the building was dilapidated and in need of urgent repair. “I have had diabetes for nearly 15 years and despite having spent thousands of riyals getting treatment from top private hospitals, my condition continued to worsen. A friend of mine recommended that I try the diabetes center and I was pleasantly surprised to see the quality of treatment here," said one patient on condition of anonymity.
