U.S. Project to Build Iraqi Hospitals Falls Badly Short

Posted on Apr 2, 2006

After two years and roughly $200 million expended, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers expects to complete only 20 out of 142 primary health centers. The World Health Organization’s rep calls it “shocking.”

Washington Post:

BAGHDAD—A reconstruction contract for the building of 142 primary health centers across Iraq is running out of money, after two years and roughly $200 million, with no more than 20 clinics now expected to be completed, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers says.

The contract, awarded to U.S. construction giant Parsons Inc. in the flush, early days of reconstruction in Iraq, was expected to lay the foundation of a modern health care system for the country, putting quality medical care within reach of all Iraqis.

Parsons, according to the Corps, will walk away from more than 120 clinics that on average are two-thirds finished. Auditors say the project serves as a warning for other U.S. reconstruction efforts due to be completed this year.

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