Since 2017, MAP has been working to improve neurosurgical care in Gaza by helping to develop the skills and knowledge of staff at the European Gaza Hospital and the Shifa Hospital, providing essential medical equipment and organising medical missions with UK volunteers to deliver training, symposiums and support for complex surgeries.
Israel's repeated attacks on Gaza have resulted in high numbers of head and complex spinal cord injuries. Without appropriate surgical management, these trauma cases can result in lifelong disabilities or even death. But the illegal closure and blockade of Gaza has caused major shortages in essential medical supplies and neurosurgery equipment, and prevented medical professionals from accessing training outside Gaza. This has led to an increase in medical referrals outside Gaza, a process fraught with obstacles and delays.