In a groundbreaking collaboration, the World Health Organization (WHO) partnered with Oslo University Hospital to donate crucial sets of breathing machines and essential medicine to Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences (SBUMS) for collaboration on improving the efficacy of treatment for cases of poisoning with methanol, carbon monoxide (CO), or anesthetic gases. This collaborative effort aims to contribute to global knowledge production and foster collaboration among academic institutes globally.
The partnership between Oslo University Hospital and SBUMS signifies a crucial step towards improving health and humanitarian services in the Islamic Republic of Iran. By increasing the country’s capacity for clinical trials in treating patients with poisoning, especially caused by methanol and CO, the collaboration addresses a critical healthcare need in the region.
This successful initiative involved coordination across multiple sectors, including the curative sector, academic institutes, the Ministry of Health and Medical Education (MOHME), and WHO at three levels – HQ, Eastern Mediterranean Region, and Iran country office. The collaboration was comprehensive, addressing legal, technical, and logistics aspects.
The donated breathing machines and methanol antidotes were formally handed over during a ceremony held on Monday, 20 November 2023, at SBUMS. The event was attended by esteemed figures, including the chancellor and authorities of SBUMS, the Ambassador of Norway in Iran, representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, MOHME, WHO, and the resident coordinator of the United Nations. Partners from Oslo University Hospital participated virtually through a recorded video.
During the ceremony, Dr Syed Jaffar Hussain, WHO Representative and Head of Mission to the Islamic Republic of Iran, underscored the vital role of international collaborations, especially in the face of sanctions. He emphasized the importance of joint research studies in strengthening capacities and knowledge transfer among countries and academic institutions. WHO pledged support through nationwide training courses on the usage of donated breathing machines and technical assistance for project execution. “We are also planning to upscale this initiative to Regional level for future collaborations,” added Dr Hussain.
Mr Sigvald Tomin Hauge, the Ambassador of Norway highlighted the humanitarian aspect of the donation, expressing Norway's commitment to supporting those in need in Iran. He also mentioned that Norway supports future Regional plans.
Dr Alireza Zali, the Chancellor of SBUMS, extended gratitude to the government of Norway and Oslo University Hospital for their support, emphasizing the positive impact on research and clinical institutes in Iran. Dr Zali outlined the crucial role of poison centers in the country, stressing the significance of having an ample stock of required antidotes. This donation not only enhances clinical studies on poisoned patients but also provides an opportunity for MOHME to strengthen national poison centers and networks.
In a video message, Dr Knut Erik Hovda, representing Oslo University Hospital, commended the close collaboration with WHO at all levels. He acknowledged the commitment of technical and academic institutes in Iran, expressing hope that this donation would contribute to improved treatment for poisoning with methanol, CO and anaesthetic gases.
This collaborative effort stands as a testament to the power of international cooperation in addressing critical health challenges, ultimately saving lives and strengthening healthcare systems worldwide.
MNA