When the conflict in Syria erupted in 2011, SAMS expanded its capacity significantly to meet the growing needs and challenges of the medical crisis. SAMS has since supported healthcare throughout Syria, sponsoring field hospitals, ambulances, training and paying the salaries of Syrian medical personnel risking their lives to save others, and sending lifesaving humanitarian aid and medical equipment to where it is needed most. SAMS also supports Syrian refugees and displaced populations in neighboring countries and beyond with specialized care, operating in eight different countries.
In 2016, in response to the mass influx of refugees on the shores of Europe, SAMS launched SAMS Global Response (SGR) in Greece with the aim of providing medical relief to vulnerable populations affected by crises. Since then SGR expanded its operations to provide quality medical care to vulnerable and displaced populations.
Specialized Medical Missions:
SAMS organizes and facilitates frequent medical missions to the region, bringing together volunteers from all over the world to support ongoing medical relief programs and provide healthcare to Syrian refugees and underserved host communities. Since 2012, SAMS has led over 90 medical missions. To learn more about our medical missions and how to join, please visit us here.
Medical Services Provided:
In the different countries where we operate, SAMS provides primary and specialized medical care, including trauma, psychosocial, dental, OBGYN, dialysis, physical rehab, and more. As new developments unfold and since the situation on the ground is rapidly changing in Syria, SAMS has developed a robust mechanism to promptly and effectively respond to crises and ensure that our patients continue to have access to the dignified, quality care they need and deserve.
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Aid & Equipment Delivery
SAMS supports medical facilities in Syria through the delivery of medical supplies and equipment. Using a network of warehouses in Syria and the region, SAMS is able to keep facilities stocked and ready to provide life-saving support
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Mobile Clinics
SAMS supports mobile clinics in parts of Syria to address growing medical needs of internally displaced populations stranded in informal settlements with little or no access to shelter, water, and healthcare.
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Dialysis Centers
Access to dialysis treatment is critical for patients suffering from chronic illnesses. SAMS supports dialysis centers to allow patients regular access to life-saving care
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Reproductive Health
Due to the lack of healthcare options available, pregnancy and childbirth have particular added challenges. SAMS supports maternity clinics that offer multilayered treatment, including OBGYN, neonatal care, pediatrics, and more.
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Dental Clinics
Dental care can be difficult to find in a conflict setting. SAMS proudly provides dental care to adults and children of all ages.
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Physical Rehabilitation
Many Syrians are coping with life after serious injury or loss of limbs. SAMS support physical rehabilitation centers to support healing and recovery for war-wounded Syrian men, women, and children.
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Lab & Imaging Services
SAMS supports many facilities with the machines necessary to take X-rays, perform ultrasounds, and take cardiac echocardiograms.
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Primary Healthcare
SAMS supports primary healthcare services for local populations as well as treatment for communicable and non-communicable diseases.
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ICU & Trauma Care
SAMS supports trauma facilities that provide emergency care, providing critical equipment such as ventilators, monitors, defibrillators, IV pumps, and other essential consumables.
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Mental Health & Psychosocial Care
SAMS supports psychosocial programming that facilitates therapeutic healing strategies and mental wellbeing. Programs use group and individual counseling sessions as well as art and play therapy for children.
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Labs & Blood Banks
SAMS supports labs and blood banks to allow physicians to draw, test, and store blood to better support the constant flow of procedures in the field.
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Reconstruction & Underground Facilities
SAMS invested in the reconstruction and transfer of standard medical facilities to underground structures – in basements, fortified structures, and even caves – to protect medical workers and their patients from aerial attacks.
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Medical Education & Training
To address the gaps in healthcare provision left by shortages of medical staff, SAMS has established and supports educational programs focused on training medical personnel and providing the skills needed to save lives.
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Specialty Care
SAMS supports multiple clinics and programs in Syria that provide specialized care. These facilities bring unique treatment to Syrian civilians in need. Specialty services include gastrointestinal endoscopy services, ophthalmology clinics, cardiac catheter labs, and more.
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Telemedicine
SAMS is spearheading innovative telemedicine strategies to use the skills of physicians in the United States and abroad to assist and support doctors inside Syria. Medical personnel connect through the use of video cameras, Skype, and satellite internet to consult, advise, and support local personnel.