Doctors of the World reacts quickly and effectively to crises and conflicts, which dramatically disrupt health systems. We’ve deployed medical teams all over the world to deal with the consequences of wars, natural disasters, and epidemics, taking all measures necessary to support the existing health systems to remain open through the crisis.

In the aftermath of a disaster, we seek ways to rebuild and improve infrastructure in a way that will make a lasting impact in the community. We support local partners to restore health systems that are accessible to all, sustainable, and better able to cope with future shocks.

Sierra Leone

We were already working in Sierra Leone to improve the country’s health system when Ebola hit West Africa in 2014 and we became part of the emergency response. Our Treatment Centre in Moyamba effectively isolated and treated all Ebola cases in the district, leading to Moyamba being Ebola-free since March 2015. Now that the epidemic is over we are supporting the health service while it recovers, so that it will be better equipped to deal with future outbreaks.

Ukraine

Since the conflict in the eastern regions of Ukraine began in 2013, access to basic healthcare has been seriously disrupted for millions of people, particularly in non-government controlled areas. We are one of a handful of NGOs prepared to work in Ukraine’s conflict zone. Our mobile units provide internally displaced people with urgently needed primary healthcare, mental health services, and support for victims of gender-based violence.

Refugee crisis

Since the beginning of Europe’s most recent refugee crisis we have been working in camps across the continent – in Greece, the Balkans, and France – as well as in the Middle East. We provide healthcare services to vulnerable refugees and displaced people, while also advocating for governments to work to ensure that all migrants and refugees have access to high-quality healthcare.