The UNRWA Annual Health Report sheds light on the unprecedented health challenges faced by Palestine refugees during the Gaza war. The report expresses sympathy for the families who have lost healthcare staff, including 11 healthcare professionals, and acknowledges their dedication and commitment to providing quality care even amid personal risk.
Throughout 2023, UNRWA focused on providing healthcare services to its 300,000 patients with non-communicable diseases, developmental care for 350,000 children under five, and safe delivery for 70,000 pregnant mothers. Over half of the 5.97 million registered Palestine refugees rely on UNRWA health services, with those in Gaza being among the most significant beneficiaries. However, access to healthcare in Gaza deteriorated in the last three months of the year due to power outages impacting telehealth systems and closure of 14 out of 22 health centers.
The hostilities in Gaza led to a plethora of new health crises, including war injuries, internal displacement, mental health issues, destruction of sanitation infrastructure and potential epidemic and famine outbreaks. To address these urgent needs, UNRWA opened emergency shelters and deployed mobile medical units while establishing disease surveillance systems and coordinating transportation of medicine and medical equipment through Rafah crossing in Gaza. In the West Bank, increased movement restrictions required adaptation to ensure uninterrupted delivery of medical supplies and care to patients.
Despite facing numerous challenges such as power outages impacting telehealth systems and closure of several health centers in Gaza as well as increased movement restrictions in West Bank; UNRWA remains committed to providing essential healthcare services to Palestine refugees beyond Gaza. The report serves as a testament to the resilience and professionalism of healthcare workers who continue to deliver critical care in the face of adversity despite facing unprecedented challenges during hostilities in Gaza war.
