Gaza:Three years of Israeli military action have left Gaza's healthcare system severely compromised, struggling to provide even basic health services and meet the population's needs.
According to Anadolu Agency, the conflict has resulted in the death of hundreds of health workers, the destruction of health facilities, and a critical shortage of equipment and supplies necessary for patient care.
The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that over 1,700 health workers have been killed in at least 920 attacks on health facilities and staff within the last three years. These assaults have also impacted 386 ambulances. Currently, Gaza's health services have only 2,253 inpatient beds, 104 ICU beds, 343 maternity beds, 384 emergency room beds, and 126 incubators available to serve over 2 million people.
Prior to the escalation in October 2023, Gaza had 36 operational hospitals. However, WHO's latest assessment reveals that only 19 hospitals are now partially functional. Primary healthcare has also been hit hard, with only 146 out of 233 facilities operational, limiting access to routine and specialized care for many residents.
Israeli restrictions on "dual-use" items have led to severe shortages of essential medicines, such as insulin, and critical diagnostic equipment and fuel. This has resulted in cancer patients struggling to access treatment, kidney patients facing difficulties with regular dialysis, and heightened risks for mothers and newborns. Furthermore, thousands have suffered amputations and other severe injuries, often without anesthesia, and rehabilitation services are scarce.
Diagnostic capabilities are restricted due to equipment and fuel shortages. Annually, at least 2,000 cancer cases are diagnosed, 45,000 patients live with cardiovascular diseases, and over 1 million suffer from mental disorders. More than 500,000 women of reproductive age lack access to essential services, including antenatal and postnatal care.
The healthcare collapse is exacerbated by worsening water, sanitation, and living conditions. WHO estimates indicate that approximately 1.7 million people remain displaced, living in overcrowded environments with poor shelter, water, and sanitation. Respiratory infections, skin diseases, and acute watery diarrhea are common, with water contamination and inadequate sanitation heightening outbreak risks.
Medical evacuation is vital for patients needing care unavailable locally. Since October 2023, over 13,760 patients have been evacuated, but many more require specialized treatment. WHO estimates that rebuilding Gaza's healthcare system will need approximately $10 billion over the next five years, as noted by Reinhilde Van de Weerdt, WHO representative for the occupied Palestinian territory, during an April briefing.