Quantifying the effects of attacks on health facilities on health service use in Northwest Syria: a case time series study from 2017 to 2019

This study quantifies the impact of health facility attacks during the Syrian conflict on health service use.

Using data from 18 health facilities and 69 attacks, the study found significant, negative associations between health facility attacks and outpatient, trauma and facility births. On average, a health facility attack was associated with 51% and 38% reductions in outpatient and trauma consultations, respectively, with effects lasting for up to 37 days. Facility births decreased by 23%, with reductions persisting for 42 days.

The study underscores how such attacks, violating international humanitarian law, impede access to essential healthcare, highlighting the need for stronger health system resilience and accountability for perpetrators.