Washington, 26 June 1997 (RFE/RL) - The World Bank has approved a $14.5 million loan to Turkey to help finance improvements in primary health care in two provinces west of Ankara and south of Istanbul.
The bank says Turkey's health care is unsatisfactory when compared to its socio-economic development, with continuing high levels of infant mortality and maternal mortality from preventable or treatable causes.
The loan will help establish a family physician and referral system and improve public health centers in Bilecik and Eskisehir.
The bank says the project will provide a framework as well for reducing regional and gender disparities in the health status of Turkey as well as strengthen overall health care management.