Critical Patients Stranded: Urgent Medical Services Suspended in Artsakh Amid Blockade

In response to the five-day blockade of Red Cross medical evacuations facilitated by the Lachin Corridor, all non-essential surgeries and checkups have been suspended in all hospitals of Artsakh, announced Artsakh’s Ministry of Healthcare.

Azerbaijan's blockade of the corridor has resulted in a complete halt of two-way patient movement from Artsakh and the supply of medical items and medicine by the International Committee of the Red Cross. As a result, medicine supplies in the stationary sector have depleted to 40%, and outpatient services are limited to just 20%.

In light of this dire situation, the Ministry of Healthcare has taken the difficult decision to cancel all non-urgent checkups and interventions, including surgeries, in all medical facilities starting today. Approximately 175 patients with various diagnoses are now awaiting the opportunity to be transported to hospitals in the Republic of Armenia for crucial treatment. Among these patients, those requiring urgent transportation suffer from severe conditions such as cancer and cardiovascular diseases.

The impact of the suspension has become particularly concerning for pediatric patients, with eight children hospitalized in the intensive care and neonatal department at the Arevik hospital. Additionally, the Republican Medical Center is currently treating eight patients in intensive care, with three of them in critical condition.

The escalating crisis has put immense strain on the region's healthcare services, exacerbating an already dire humanitarian situation.

The international community closely monitors the developments and calls for immediate measures to address the blockade's severe impact on medical supplies and services in Artsakh. Urgent diplomatic efforts are needed to find a resolution and allow for the swift and safe transportation of patients in critical need of medical care.

The suspension of non-urgent medical services serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing blockade in Artsakh. The wellbeing and safety of the people in Artsakh must remain a top priority, and all parties involved must cooperate in finding a sustainable solution to the humanitarian crisis.