Rebuilding Syria’s Health System: Challenges and Initiatives Post-Civil War
Syria’s healthcare system is critically impacted by civil war and sanctions, with 57% of hospitals and 37% of health centers operational. Initiatives from NGOs like MedGlobal are underway to address shortages and provide care, while a comprehensive recovery strategy involving local and international stakeholders is urgently needed. The ongoing political changes present both challenges and opportunities for rebuilding health services, while food insecurity further complicates the crisis.
The Syrian Arab Republic’s health system is in dire straits, exacerbated by over a decade of civil war, sanctions, and the departure of medical professionals. Following the recent political shift from the Bashar Assad regime, the nation faces significant obstacles in reconstructing a unified health sector that is functional and capable of serving its population.
According to the World Health Organization, a mere 57% of hospitals and 37% of primary health centers in Syria are operational, and these facilities are plagued by severe shortages of resources, leaving millions without access to essential medical services. Dr. Zaher Sahloul from MedGlobal highlighted the inadequate state of health facilities, where “hospitals are outdated, primary health care centers lack essential services, technology is obsolete,” and there is a dearth of funding and modern technology.
Syria’s Ministry of Health is faced with the overwhelming task of revitalizing the health system with limited capacity and a skeletal workforce of health administrators. In response, interim authorities are implementing a short-term emergency plan, which includes prioritizing fuel, electricity, and critical medical supplies, as stated by Zuhair Qarat, who is the director at Syria’s Ministry of Health.
Various local and international NGOs, including MedGlobal, have initiated campaigns to address healthcare shortages. During Ramadan, these organizations have intensified their fundraising efforts to provide necessary medical services. MedGlobal has notably launched a special appeal to aid patients needing dialysis, chronic illness medications, and nutritional support.
MedGlobal’s outreach includes sending significant shipments of medical supplies valued at $20 million, in coordination with Syrian health authorities. Moreover, initiatives such as REViVE and Taafi Homs have been established to involve expatriate doctors in planning for healthcare recovery, demonstrating the potential collaborative efforts among Syrian healthcare professionals abroad.
Despite progress, Syria’s healthcare system remains hindered by factors such as absent transitional strategies, a continued exodus of health professionals, and persistent US sanctions. Dr. Sahloul emphasized the urgent need for a holistic recovery strategy that encompasses health governance, human resources, and education within the state-led framework and the role of NGOs and UN agencies.
As the medical sector continues to struggle with essential services and infrastructure, half of Syria’s population is food insecure, with a portion experiencing acute hunger, according to a recent World Food Programme report. The country’s healthcare challenges are compounded by significant public health crises, including multidrug-resistant infections and a widespread mental health crisis.
In conclusion, Syria’s healthcare system is facing an array of challenges posed by years of war, economic sanctions, and a severe shortage of medical professionals. While NGOs and international groups are actively contributing towards recovery efforts, the pathway to restoring an effective healthcare framework necessitates a coherent strategy that engages both local authorities and the expatriate medical community. Addressing these needs, lifting sanctions, and improving conditions for healthcare workers are crucial for Syria’s healthcare revival.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
