Access to healthcare severely limited by fighting in Arakan State

By Admin 27 Apr 2024

DMG Newsroom
27 April 2024, Sittwe

Access to healthcare services has been severely curtailed in Arakan State due to a shortage of medicines and travel restrictions during the ongoing fighting.

People with chronic diseases who need regular treatment at healthcare facilities, in particular, are suffering.

The regime has blockaded roads and waterways in Arakan State since the fighting began in November, resulting in medicine shortages in many parts of the state and seriously disrupting the operations of hospitals and clinics.

“I can’t go to see the doctor because of the fighting. Last month, I could buy some medicines from Sittwe. But I can’t buy anymore as security has been tightened in Sittwe,” said a woman from Ponnagyun Township.

Public hospitals are only open in Sittwe, Kyaukphyu, Taungup, Thandwe and Gwa towns, which are still under the regime’s control. But hospitals and clinics in those towns are barely operating as many healthcare workers including doctors have fled out of fear for their safety.

Meanwhile, the regime has been targeting townships seized by the Arakkha Army (AA) with indiscriminate air raids — and also at times with discriminating tendencies toward healthcare infrastructure.

“The regime has been targeting healthcare facilities in townships seized by the AA. So, they can’t provide healthcare services safely,” said a social activist.

There are also sick people who need to go to Yangon for healthcare services and medical screenings that are unavailable in Arakan State. Currently, only Sittwe, Kyaukphyu and Thandwe residents can fly to Yangon due to the junta’s travel restrictions.