International Medical Corps has provided health services for vulnerable populations in Afghanistan for 30 years. We aim to improve the quality of life and health status of Afghans through integrated interventions and by strengthening the capacity of the public health system through an ongoing commitment to improving local infrastructure. We respond to immediate needs in the face of natural disaster or armed conflict but also focus on preparing local communities to respond to future crises.
Armed conflict and other security issues make safety tenuous for civilians who already find it difficult to obtain basic services. A recent suicide bombing not only inflicted casualties but also highlighted the need for improvements in healthcare infrastructure. Recent natural disasters have caused injuries and destruction of homes, making life even more difficult for local communities and creating a significant need for primary health services.
We have begun critical renovations to a hospital in the Urgon district, which will dramatically improve access to obstetric, emergency and dental care. In response to the destruction caused by flooding and avalanches, we are distributing emergency kits including blankets, hygiene materials and other non-food items to families in the region. An expanded distribution of tents will also protect families from extreme weather conditions until they can rebuild.
We coordinate all of our work with the local Ministry of Health to ensure that we leave a lasting impact on families in Afghanistan. Our commitment to training and capacity building will help strengthen the healthcare system in the long term. Our focus on developing resiliency against natural disasters in the form of community preparedness groups also ensure that local communities are equipped to face future emergencies and are more self-reliant.
