Medical Care in Palestine: Working in a Conflict Zone

One of the main constraints to the establishment of a functional healthcare system is a 708 kilometre long, 8 meters high wall, known as the “Separation Wall” (Figures 1 and 2).2 Deemed by successive Israeli governments to be a necessary protective mechanism for Israelis, the wall has led to the separation of the West Bank from Israel.3 Yet, despite suggestions to the contrary, the reality is that the barrier has had a devastating impact on 2.79 million people living in the West Bank and caused fragmentation of the region both physically and economically.4 Amongst other issues, the wall has contributed to the disruption of Palestinian access to land, livelihoods, education, water resources and has significantly inhibited freedom of movement across the West Bank.5 This in turn has generated deep seeded psychological and social harm to those living behind it.2 From a medical sense, the barrier acts as an obstacle to health, inhibiting the fundamental right of Palestinians to healthcare by restricting the movement of patients, doctors, ambulances and medications within the area.6 Importantly, it should be highlighted that the so-called “Separation Wall” is considered illegal under International Law.2&7