Resilience amid chaos: The role of Gaza medical points

The Gaza healthcare system faces critical challenges due to ongoing war, with medical points (MPs) serving as essential healthcare providers. MPs are temporary healthcare service units established during emergencies or conflicts to provide essential medical care. This study assessed the operational status and resource availability of MPs in Gaza during wartime conditions. A cross-sectional online self-assessment survey conducted from October to December 2024 evaluated 28 MPs across Gaza. Data on facility characteristics, services, equipment, drug availability, and staffing were analyzed using descriptive statistics. The findings revealed that MPs experience severe shortages in essential medications, with insulin, antiepileptics, and cancer treatments unavailable in over 90% of cases. Antibiotics and psychiatric medications are critically deficient. Equipment shortages, including limited oxygen supplies and diagnostic tools, further strain trauma and chronic disease care. Only 39% of MPs provide maternity and vaccination services, while mental health services are nearly absent. Staffing is inadequate, with many healthcare personnel lacking training. Most MPs operate in temporary structures with inconsistent electricity, internet, and sanitation. Despite these limitations, MPs (median staff of 7 personnel) manage an average of 117 patients per unit daily. These findings highlight that MPs are crucial in Gaza's healthcare delivery but face severe systemic challenges. Urgent action is required to ensure the uninterrupted supply of essential medications and medical equipment to sustain life-saving services. Additionally, telemedicine could help address access barriers and support healthcare providers in managing escalating demands.