Abu Salmiya: Gaza’s hospitals operating beyond their capacity

GAZA, Jan. 08 (YPA) – Dr. Mohammed Abu Salmiya, Director of Al-Shifa Medical Complex in Gaza, said on Thursday that emergency departments are operating under unprecedented pressure due to a sharp rise in patient numbers.

In press remarks, Abu Salmiya said, “Hospitals are operating at more than 150% of their capacity amid a severe shortage of medicines and medical supplies,” noting that more than 55% of essential drugs and 70% of medical consumables are unavailable.

He explained that some medical specialties face shortages exceeding 100%, which prevents treatment even for emergency cases, adding that “about 50% of dialysis patients are not receiving care, with daily deaths continuing due to a lack of more than 70% of their required medications.”

Gaza’s healthcare system is under severe strain due to medicine shortages and rising patient numbers. Authorities warn the crisis is worsening, especially in emergency and dialysis units, putting thousands of lives at risk and overwhelming medical staff.

@E.Y.M