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A New Direction for Healthcare in Syria: SAMS' Vision for Renewal

The recent collapse of the Syrian government marks a significant turning point for the nation after decades of Assad's reign. In this pivotal moment, the Syrian American Medical Society (SAMS) has announced its commitment to reforming healthcare to meet the needs of all Syrians. With over ten years of experience supporting vulnerable populations amid conflict, SAMS aims to continue its mission of providing dignified, quality healthcare.

Immediate Response to the Crisis

In the aftermath of escalating violence, SAMS has swiftly mobilized resources to address the urgent healthcare needs that have arisen. Here are some of the immediate actions taken by SAMS:

• - Deployment of Ambulances: SAMS has dispatched ambulances to critical areas like Aleppo, Idlib, and Hama to ensure timely medical assistance.
• - ICU Expansion: To cope with the increased number of casualties, SAMS has expanded ICU capacities in hospitals in Idlib, ensuring that patients from facilities affected by bombings receive proper care.
• - Emergency Hospital Support: The organization has launched emergency initiatives for hospitals in Aleppo City, including dialysis centers and blood banks, to facilitate ongoing medical operations.
• - Daily Patient Care: Currently, SAMS provides comprehensive medical services to around 9,000 patients a day across more than 30 facilities in northern Syria.
• - Safe Spaces for Survivors: SAMS maintains safe havens for those who have faced atrocities and those newly displaced, offering necessary support and care.
• - Health Assessments: Collaborating with local health authorities, SAMS has conducted rapid health assessments across eight governorates, helping identify pressing health needs.

Strategic Goals for the Future

Looking ahead, SAMS has outlined several strategic goals to rebuild and enhance the healthcare system in Syria:

• - Expanding Emergency Support: SAMS plans to extend its emergency support to additional facilities in Aleppo, Hama, Homs, Latakia, and Damascus, focusing on procuring essential medical supplies and enhancing critical patient services.
• - Telemedicine Initiatives: Aiming to improve healthcare accessibility, SAMS will activate and broaden telemedicine programs tailored to underserved areas.
• - Hospital Rehabilitation: Rehabilitating damaged facilities in Idlib is a priority, particularly to restore NICU and PICU services that are crucial for pediatric care.
• - Mental Health Services: SAMS intends to increase its mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) services, especially for individuals recently released from government prisons, recognizing the impact of trauma on health.
• - Blood Donation Campaigns: Initiatives in Idlib will promote blood donation to meet the critical needs across the region, particularly in Homs.

A Commitment to Justice

SAMS' commitment to accountability for attacks on healthcare workers and institutions also remains resolute. The organization will continue documenting violations and advocating for international accountability mechanisms, emphasizing the enforcement of humanitarian law.

A Call for Unity

Dr. Mufaddal Hamadeh, President of SAMS, highlighted the organization's readiness to lead the charge in rebuilding Syria's healthcare framework: "Our mission is to ensure every Syrian can access equitable, dignified care and to restore hope in a unified Syria through collective efforts. This moment represents an opportunity to promote health as a cornerstone for healing, reconciliation, and progress."

SAMS invites the global community to support its emergency response initiatives and contribute to its relief fund by visiting their online platform.

About SAMS

The Syrian American Medical Society (SAMS) has been at the forefront of medical relief efforts, delivering millions of healthcare services and supporting healthcare professionals in conflict zones. Its proactive role in addressing health crises makes it a critical player in renewing Syria's healthcare landscape amidst the ongoing transition.