Projects Overview for Physicians for Palestine

Pulmonary Function Enhancement:

Our pulmonary function laboratory is operating at full capacity, but to meet increasing demand, we are in the process of training a second technologist. Additionally, we require more disposable mouthpieces to sustain operations independently without referring studies elsewhere. Thanks to local support from a pulmonary specialist and critical care specialist, alongside assistance from US-based counterparts, we're able to expand our services in-house.

Vascular Health Services Advancement:

The completion of our endovascular room marks a significant milestone, allowing us to perform several cases weekly and saving substantial costs previously incurred through external referrals. To further enhance our vascular health services, we aim to develop public education initiatives, establish an ultrasound vascular diagnostic unit, improve IT connectivity, implement a follow-up program, and appoint a system coordinator. Plans are also underway to introduce a rotational interventional vascular surgeon for ongoing support and training. While we have ample volunteer vascular specialists for the next two years, funding is essential to cover expenses, including supplies not adequately provided by the Ministry of Health. Our local Palestinian vascular specialists receive support from colleagues in the US and Germany.

Peritoneal Dialysis Initiative:

After three years of planning, our peritoneal dialysis project is finally underway. With the necessary infrastructure in place, including a dedicated space at Ramallah Hospital, we are preparing to commence training for the first patient in early March. This pioneering project within the government health system is anticipated to generate substantial cost savings by reducing referrals. Collaborating closely with a US-based advisory team and engaging with local support groups, such as "Friends of the PD Patient" in Nablus, we aim to expand access to peritoneal dialysis across Palestine.

Breast Cancer and Women's Health Services:

Our newly constructed facility for breast cancer and women's health services is nearing completion, with equipment installation underway. Services will include mammography, stereotactic biopsy, sentinel node identification, colposcopy, operative hysteroscopy, bone density assessments, and fetal monitoring. A multidisciplinary local team comprising oncological surgeons, radiologists, gynecologists, an oncologist, and a pathologist is poised to begin operations this summer. We are assembling supporting teams from the USA and Germany to ensure comprehensive and high-quality care.

Tissue Pathology Laboratory:

A state-of-the-art digital automated tissue pathology laboratory is being established within our newly constructed facility. This facility, like all our projects, aims to serve the entire Palestinian population. The pathology team in Ramallah is ready to commence training upon equipment installation, with additional support provided through telepathology services from the US and Germany.

Ongoing Support:

In addition to the aforementioned projects, we are actively involved in supporting various initiatives, including emergency medicine, critical care, pulmonary medicine, sleep lab, and others. These endeavors underscore our commitment to advancing healthcare services across Palestine.