Research Snapshot: The impact of attacks on Syrian health systems

Violent attacks on the Syrian healthcare system have been a characteristic of a decade of conflict. This mixed-methods study aimed to describe their impacts, addressing a global evidence gap.

The findings demonstrate that long-lasting, cumulative impacts result from attacks. These are found at every level of the health system including the health workforce, and health service utilisation by communities. Stronger support for health workers and hospitals and protection from future attacks is critical to mitigate these impacts, and increased international resources should be targeted at this issue. Local stakeholders should be consulted on resource allocation within health systems.

This research snapshot contains key messages, findings, implications for humanitarian policymakers and practitioners and recommendations for further research.