Shocking: Syria health workers

The unique role of women healthcare workers

Women healthcare workers in Syria have played a pivotal role in the country’s health sector, providing essential services and support during the conflict. Their unique perspective and expertise have been instrumental in delivering care, particularly in areas where access to healthcare is severely limited. Khawla Al-Najjar, a midwife in Aleppo, exemplifies this dedication. Despite the dangers posed by airstrikes and displacement, Khawla continued to deliver babies, often walking for hours under fire to reach remote villages. Her commitment to her patients and her community is a testament to the resilience and dedication of women healthcare workers in Syria.

Women healthcare workers often provide a level of care that is both physically and emotionally supportive. They are not only skilled professionals but also trusted figures in their communities, offering comfort and reassurance to patients and their families. This dual role is particularly important in a conflict zone where fear and uncertainty are constant companions. Women healthcare workers bridge the gap between medical expertise and community trust, ensuring that patients receive the care they need in a compassionate and supportive environment.

The importance of investing in female healthcare workers

Investing in female healthcare workers is crucial for the long-term recovery and stability of Syria’s health system. Women make up a significant portion of the healthcare workforce, and their contributions are invaluable. However, they often face unique challenges, including gender-based discrimination, lack of resources, and limited opportunities for professional development. Ensuring that women healthcare workers are adequately supported and equipped is essential for building a resilient health system that can meet the needs of the population.

Investing in female healthcare workers involves providing them with the necessary training, equipment, and support to perform their jobs effectively. This includes access to medical supplies, reliable transportation, and safe working conditions. Additionally, investing in women’s healthcare involves creating opportunities for professional development and advancement. This can include leadership training, mentorship programs, and access to higher education. By empowering women healthcare workers, Syria can build a stronger, more equitable health system that better serves its population.

The need for women’s involvement in rebuilding Syria’s healthcare

Women’s involvement in rebuilding Syria’s healthcare system is not just important; it is essential. Women bring unique perspectives and skills that are crucial for addressing the diverse needs of the population. Their participation in decision-making processes and planning initiatives ensures that the health system is inclusive and responsive to the needs of all citizens. Abeer Al-Suwaid, a physiotherapist in Sarmada, Idlib, highlights the importance of women’s involvement. She emphasizes that women healthcare workers often provide special attention and care, particularly comforting to children and vulnerable populations.

Moreover, involving women in the rebuilding process can help address gender-based disparities in healthcare access and quality. Women are more likely to seek healthcare for themselves and their families if they feel represented and supported within the system. This can lead to better health outcomes and a more equitable distribution of healthcare resources. By ensuring that women are involved in all aspects of healthcare rebuilding, Syria can create a system that is not only functional but also just and responsive to the needs of its citizens.

The Importance of Continued Aid and Support

The role of donor support in maintaining healthcare services

Donor support has been a lifeline for Syria’s healthcare system, providing essential resources and funding for critical services. In a country where the health system has been severely impacted by conflict and displacement, international aid has played a vital role in keeping hospitals and clinics operational. Hospitals like Sham Children’s Hospital in Sarmada rely on donor support to provide care without patient fees, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their financial situation, can access the medical attention they need.

Donor support has enabled the maintenance of essential services such as vaccinations, maternity care, and treatment for chronic diseases. Without this support, many Syrians would be left without access to basic healthcare, exacerbating the already dire health situation. Donor funding has also facilitated the repair and rehabilitation of healthcare facilities damaged by the conflict. This has been crucial in restoring access to healthcare in areas where services were previously unavailable or severely limited.

The risk of interruptions in humanitarian aid

Despite the critical role of humanitarian aid, there is a significant risk of interruptions that could have devastating consequences for Syria’s healthcare system. Funding shortages, political instability, and logistical challenges can all contribute to disruptions in aid delivery. For example, the situation in Al-Hol camp highlights the vulnerability of healthcare services to funding cuts. In May 2024, WHO’s access to the camp was revoked due to funding shortages, leaving thousands without essential medical care.

Interruptions in humanitarian aid can lead to a cascade of negative effects, including the closure of healthcare facilities, shortages of medical supplies, and a reduction in the number of healthcare workers. This can result in increased morbidity and mortality, as patients are unable to access the care they need. Moreover, interruptions in aid can undermine the trust and cooperation between international organizations and local communities, further complicating the delivery of healthcare services.

The need for a well-planned transition to ensure continuous care

A well-planned transition from humanitarian aid to sustainable healthcare services is essential for ensuring continuous care in Syria. This involves a multi-faceted approach that includes strengthening local healthcare systems, building capacity among healthcare workers, and fostering partnerships between international organizations and local stakeholders. A gradual and well-coordinated transition can help mitigate the risks associated with interruptions in aid and ensure that healthcare services remain accessible to all Syrians.

One key aspect of a well-planned transition is the retention of skilled healthcare workers. The exodus of healthcare professionals has left Syria with a significant shortage of medical expertise. Retaining and training new healthcare workers is crucial for building a sustainable healthcare system. This can be achieved through initiatives such as scholarships, mentorship programs, and incentives for healthcare workers to stay in the country.

Additionally, a well-planned transition should include the development of local manufacturing capabilities for medical supplies and equipment. This can reduce dependency on international aid and ensure a steady supply of essential medical resources. By investing in local production and distribution networks, Syria can build a more resilient healthcare system that is better equipped to handle future challenges.

Challenges in Syria’s Health Sector

Socioeconomic Factors Affecting Health

The socioeconomic situation in Syria is rapidly deteriorating due to ongoing insecurity, climate change, and displacement. These factors are exacerbating health vulnerabilities across the country, making it increasingly challenging to provide adequate healthcare services. The interplay between these factors creates a complex web of health challenges that require a multi-sectoral approach to address.

Ongoing insecurity and political instability have led to a significant increase in chronic diseases and malnutrition. The ongoing conflict has disrupted food supply chains, making it difficult for many Syrians to access nutritious food. This has resulted in a rise in malnutrition rates, particularly among children and mothers. According to recent reports, rates of global acute malnutrition (GAM) in children under five have tripled over the past four years. This is a severe outcome of the rising poverty and food insecurity across the country.

The impact of climate change is another significant factor affecting Syria’s health sector. Environmental risks such as droughts, floods, and extreme weather events are becoming more frequent and severe. These events can lead to displacement, damage to infrastructure, and the spread of diseases. For example, the severe drought in the northeastern region has forced many families to leave their homes, leading to overcrowded living conditions and increased health risks.

Addressing these challenges requires enhanced multi-sectoral coordination at all levels. This involves collaboration between the health sector and other sectors such as agriculture, education, and social services. By working together, these sectors can develop comprehensive strategies to address the root causes of health vulnerabilities and improve the overall well-being of the population. For instance, initiatives to improve agricultural productivity and ensure food security can help reduce malnutrition and improve overall health outcomes.

The Impact of Displacement on Health

Displacement has had a profound impact on Syria’s health sector, with more than 7.2 million people internally displaced. The prolonged conflict and the tragic earthquake in February 2023 have left many Syrians in dire living conditions, particularly in areas like Aleppo. The lack of electricity has forced people to adopt innovative yet unsafe approaches to heating and cooking, increasing the risk of fires and household burns, particularly for children.

Overcrowded living conditions and limited access to clean water and proper sanitation have led to outbreaks of various diseases. Cholera, severe acute respiratory infections, measles, lice, and scabies have been regularly reported across the country over the past two years. These outbreaks are a direct result of the poor living conditions and lack of access to basic hygiene services. For instance, in Aleppo, the lack of clean water and sanitation has contributed to a significant increase in waterborne diseases.

The impact of displacement on health is not limited to physical health. The psychological effects of displacement are also significant, with many Syrians experiencing trauma, anxiety, and depression. The loss of homes, families, and livelihoods has taken a toll on the mental well-being of the population. Access to mental health services is limited, further exacerbating the psychological impact of displacement.

WHO’s Role and Future Directions

WHO’s Efforts in Syria

WHO and its partners have been instrumental in restoring health services in Syria, working tirelessly to rebuild and sustain healthcare infrastructure. Despite the challenges, WHO has made significant progress in rehabilitating healthcare facilities and providing essential medical supplies. For example, WHO has been actively involved in the rehabilitation of hospitals and clinics in Aleppo, Homs, and Hama, ensuring that critical services are available to the population.

However, providing access to healthcare remains a significant challenge. The conflict has destroyed much of Syria’s healthcare infrastructure, leaving many areas without adequate medical services. WHO and its partners are working to address this by establishing mobile clinics, providing emergency medical supplies, and training local healthcare workers. These efforts are crucial for ensuring that healthcare services are available to those in need, regardless of their location.

The situation in Al-Hol camp is a prime example of the challenges faced by WHO in providing access to healthcare. Since May 2024, WHO’s access to the camp has been revoked due to funding shortages. This has left thousands of people without essential medical care, highlighting the vulnerability of healthcare services to disruptions in aid. WHO continues to advocate for sustained funding and support to ensure that healthcare services in Al-Hol and other vulnerable areas remain operational.

The Future of Syria’s Healthcare

The future of Syria’s healthcare system depends on the retention of a skilled health workforce and the availability of sufficient medical supplies. Currently, almost half of the health workforce has left the country, leaving a significant gap in medical expertise. Retaining healthcare workers is crucial for building a resilient healthcare system that can meet the needs of the population. This can be achieved through initiatives such as scholarships, mentorship programs, and incentives for healthcare workers to stay in the country.

Investing in medical supplies and equipment is another key aspect of building a sustainable healthcare system. Syria’s healthcare infrastructure has been severely damaged by the conflict, leaving many hospitals and clinics without essential medical supplies. Investing in local production and distribution networks can help ensure a steady supply of medical resources and reduce dependency on international aid.

The health sector plays a crucial role in Syria’s recovery and stability. A well-functioning health system is essential for addressing the immediate needs of the population and building a resilient society. By investing in healthcare, Syria can improve health outcomes, reduce vulnerabilities, and create the conditions for long-term stability and development.