The Syrian health system is in crisis post-civil war, with only 57% of hospitals operational, leading to severe shortages and inaccessible services for millions. Local and international efforts seek to address these issues, but funding challenges and a lack of coordination with new health authorities hinder progress. Immediate action, including lifting sanctions and developing a cohesive recovery strategy, is essential to rebuild healthcare in Syria.
The Syrian Arab Republic’s health system is facing catastrophic challenges due to a decade of civil war, sanctions, and professional displacement. With a transitional authority taking the lead following the fall of the Bashar Assad regime, Syria is tasked with rebuilding its health sector from the ground up, amidst deteriorating conditions. According to the World Health Organization, only 57 percent of hospitals and 37 percent of health centers in Syria are fully operational, leaving millions without essential services.
Dr. Zaher Sahloul, head of the US-based medical charity MedGlobal, noted that the state of hospitals and primary health care is alarming, with outdated facilities and no functioning health insurance or funding structures. The Syrian Ministry of Health is struggling to revive this critical system amidst overwhelming challenges and a workforce shortage. A senior health official reported an interim emergency plan focuses on urgently needed fuel, electricity, and medical supplies, as the healthcare infrastructure is in dire need of support.
Local NGOs and international aid organizations have initiated programs like MedGlobal’s “Rebuilding Syria” to address these shortages, particularly critical given the needs heightened during Ramadan. A report from the World Food Programme indicates a staggering 12.9 million people in Syria are food insecure, exacerbating health issues, particularly childhood malnutrition.
Despite the capabilities of Syrian doctors, the economic situation is dire, with average salaries around $25 monthly, insufficient to meet basic living costs. In light of Ramadan, MedGlobal has ramped up fundraising efforts to provide essential medical services and support for healthcare workers, including the delivery of critical supplies valued at $20 million and vital programs for various health conditions.
Efforts are being made to engage Syrian expatriates in healthcare recovery, including initiatives like REViVE and Taafi Homs, which aim to utilize skilled professionals for strengthening the health system. Immediate support measures have led to the activation of health facilities and the provision of critical training programs for medical graduates.
Dr. Sahloul emphasized the importance of government collaboration with NGOs to ensure the effectiveness of recovery efforts, calling for a comprehensive strategy to improve health governance and workforce capacity. With ongoing challenges, such as the continued exodus of medical professionals and inadequate resources, a united approach will be necessary for long-term recovery, especially amidst the persistent US sanctions that continue to impact the healthcare sector severely.
The loss of a significant portion of Syria’s health workforce, with only one doctor per 10,000 people reported, along with the brain drain, underlines the urgent need for retention strategies in healthcare. Solutions must include enhancing compensations and training and addressing infrastructural deficiencies to stem this talent drain.
Syria is grappling with serious public health issues as multidrug-resistant infections grow and mental health crises are exacerbated by traumatic experiences related to the ongoing conflict. Additionally, the rising incidence of noncommunicable diseases has strained the already depleted health system, highlighting the necessity for substantial reforms and additional support to meet the burgeoning needs of the population.
In summary, Syria’s health system is facing unprecedented difficulties that require immediate attention. Despite some progress made by NGOs and international collaborations, significant challenges remain, including a lack of resources, brain drain, and the need for strategic planning amidst ongoing sanctions. Without a comprehensive recovery strategy and support for its healthcare professionals, Syria’s health system may suffer further decline, affecting countless lives.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
