Gaza Hospitals Struggle Amid Ongoing Conflict
22 October 2024, Gaza, Cairo, Geneva – A recent mission led by the World Health Organization (WHO) successfully transferred 14 patients and 10 caregivers from Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern Gaza to Al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza City on October 21. This operation took place during a time of heightened violence and restrictions in the area.
While there was an agreement to deliver essential medical supplies, including blood and fuel needed for the hospitals, these were denied mere hours before the operation began on October 20. This has placed even greater strain on the already stretched resources at Kamal Adwan and Al-Awda hospitals.
The mission itself was fraught with difficulties. The team encountered delays at various checkpoints and had to undergo extensive security checks. Due to the intense conflict nearby, they had to remain overnight at Kamal Adwan Hospital until it was safe to continue their journey the following day. Heavy bombardment overnight caused anxiety among patients and healthcare workers, further complicating the mission.
As the team finally headed to Al-Shifa, patients were removed from their ambulances for security screenings. Some patients, especially those who were on stretchers, had to wait on the ground during this process, which was distressing for them and their caregivers.
This operation marked the fourth mission to northern Gaza since early October. Out of 21 missions requested by WHO this month, only six have been approved, highlighting severe access issues.
Kamal Adwan Hospital, while still operating, is facing overwhelming pressure with a current patient count of 95, including 15 in intensive care, four of whom are on life support. The hospital has received at least 200 severely injured individuals and 53 deceased over the last two days, further compounding its challenges. Bomb damage was also reported at the hospital entrance on October 22.
The ongoing conflict and damaged infrastructure severely limit access to medical facilities. If health workers, ambulances, and supplies cannot reach hospitals, operations may come to a standstill.
WHO is increasingly worried about the future of the remaining operational hospitals in northern Gaza—Kamal Adwan and Al-Awda. The absence of healthcare services would worsen an already critical situation, leading to more loss of life.
Despite ongoing conflicts, the healthcare facilities continue to endure attacks and are deprived of vital supplies and fuel. WHO emphasizes the urgent need for safe access to hospitals, timely aid delivery, and a ceasefire to protect vulnerable patients and healthcare providers.
