In conflict zones, health systems face immense challenges, with destroyed hospitals and a shortage of health professionals.
As conflicts continue to devastate the lives of civilians around the world, health systems in war zones face unprecedented challenges. In the last decade alone, more than 180,000 civilians have been killed in armed conflicts around the world, and regions like Syria have seen a mass exodus of health professionals – more than 70% have fled due to violence. In Ukraine, recent reports indicate that more than 17 million people are in need of humanitarian assistance, with health 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 more than 50% of medical facilities in Gaza are not functioning or operating at reduced capacity due to the 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 for physicians, preparing them to manage common trauma in conflict zones, including gunshot wounds and blast injuries. Given that the majority of injuries in modern warfare are caused by explosive devices, this specialized training has never been more crucial.
Bridging the Conflict Medicine Skills Gap
Conflict medicine involves the diagnosis, treatment and management of injuries resulting from armed conflict, encompassing a range of trauma-related conditions. This requires a unique set of skills that go beyond conventional medical practices. In areas like Sudan and Somaliland, where many doctors lack the training to manage complex war injuries, our work is vital.
The Foundation has trained more than 2,000 doctors in 17 countries, providing them with practical skills in triage, emergency procedures and trauma care. However, the shortage of surgeons with specialized knowledge in conflict-related trauma worsens the situation, as studies indicate that 90% of health workers in these areas feel inadequately prepared to manage such injuries.
An impact on lives in conflict zones
Our skilled doctors are now saving lives in some of the most dangerous regions, including Yemen, where half of health facilities are not functioning. They not only treat immediate trauma, but also provide long-term care, helping communities recover from the devastating effects of war.
Through ongoing training programs, we continue to build a global network of conflict medicine experts who are making a significant difference in conflict zones.
THE TRAINING WERE DOCTORS, SAVING LIVES
Our mission is simple: save victims of conflicts and natural disasters by better equipping the doctors who treat them.