Shortages in life-saving medicines are having a devastating impact on the lives of ordinary Syrians24 January 2013 – 22 months of conflict in the Syrian Arab Republic have resulted in substantial damage to the national health system. 55% of public hospitals and 10% of public health centres have been damaged or destroyed, and functioning hospitals are often overwhelmed with patients. Pharmaceutical plants that previously produced 90% of the country’s medicines and medical supplies are no longer functioning resulting in critical shortages in medical supplies and medicines, especially for chronic diseases.

Destruction and damage of key infrastructure, including medical facilities, clinics and hospitals, has a tragic impact on the life of ordinary people. Patients with chronic diseases are unable to make regular visits to hospitals to seek treatment. Limited access to health facilities due to the security situation, relocation to less volatile areas and shortages in essential medicines now makes it a challenge for these patients to continue their life-saving treatment.