Addressing the crisis in conflict healthcare

In conflict zones, healthcare systems face immense challenges, with hospitals destroyed and medical professionals in short supply.

As conflicts continue to devastate civilian lives across the globe, healthcare systems in war zones face unprecedented challenges. In the past decade alone, over 180,000 civilians have been killed in armed conflicts worldwide, with regions like Syria experiencing a mass exodus of healthcare workers—over 70% have fled due to violence. In Ukraine, recent reports indicate that over 17 million people require humanitarian assistance, with healthcare facilities frequently targeted and damaged, leading to significant shortages of medical supplies and personnel. In Palestine, the situation is even more dire, with access to healthcare severely restricted due to ongoing violence. Reports show that over 50% of medical facilities in Gaza are non-functional or operating at reduced capacity due to conflict, significantly affecting patient care.

In response we are equipping healthcare workers with the skills they need to save lives in these volatile environments. Our flagship Hostile Environment Surgical Training (HEST) program provides essential training to doctors, preparing them to handle trauma injuries common in conflict zones, including gunshot wounds and blast injuries. Given that the majority of injuries in modern warfare are caused by explosive devices, this specialised training has never been more critical.

Bridging the skills gap in conflict medicine

Conflict medicine involves the diagnosis, treatment, and management of injuries resulting from armed conflict, encompassing a range of trauma-related conditions. It requires a unique set of skills that go beyond conventional medical practices. In areas like Sudan, and Somaliland where many doctors lack the necessary training to manage complex war injuries, our work is vital.

The Foundation has trained over 2,000 doctors in 17 countries, offering practical skills in triage, emergency procedures, and trauma care. However, the scarcity of surgeons with specialised knowledge in conflict-related trauma exacerbates the situation, as studies indicate that 90% of healthcare workers in these zones feel inadequately prepared to handle such injuries.

Impacting lives in conflict zones

Our trained doctors are now saving lives in some of the most dangerous regions, including Yemen, where half of the healthcare facilities are non-functional. They are not only addressing immediate trauma but also providing long-term care, helping communities recover from the devastating impacts of war.

Through ongoing training programmes, we continue to build a global network of conflict medicine experts who are making a significant difference in conflict zones.