Over the last few days, Malteser International has delivered drugs, medical supplies, wheelchairs and water filtration to two refugee camps in Ankawa, a suburb of Erbil in northern Iraq. The relief agency of the Order of Malta also delivered a shipping container clinic to the health centre of Mart Shmoni church, where gravely ill patients can be cared for and housed.

“This first shipment will start addressing the dire need for essential drugs as well as drugs for chronic illnesses, especially at primary healthcare facilities receiving a large number of displaced persons,” says Juergen Clemens, Malteser International’s emergency relief coordinator. “However, there are still gaps that need to be filled, for instance in psychosocial care, as there are not enough providers to meet the rising demands.”

In cooperation with its local partner organisations, Malteser International is also planning the deployment of a mobile medical team in Erbil and the surrounding region. The team will consist of two doctors and two nurses. In addition, psychology and psychotherapy expert Dr. Peter Kaiser will join Malteser International’s team on the ground to help the refugees overcome trauma. The Order of Malta’s agency also plans to provide an additional health centre with a month’s supply of medicines.