A Myanmar doctor has spoken out about the healthcare system teetering on the brink of collapse amid a devastating civil war. Elle, a physician who fled to the jungle after the 2021 military coup, now treats patients from refugee camps but struggles to support her aging parents.
Healthcare Workers Under Siege
Since the junta seized power, over 45,000 healthcare workers have joined the resistance movement. Many, like Elle and her husband, risk their lives daily. Attacks on health infrastructure have surged, with the World Health Organization verifying 70 attacks, 148 deaths, and 186 injuries in 2025 alone.
Impact of Military Blockades
Military blockades have created severe shortages of essential supplies, including bandages, antiseptic, antibiotics, IV fluids, and malaria tests. Maternal and child health supplies are critically low. Dr. Andrew Green of the British Medical Association warns that violations of medical neutrality have led to the destruction of medical services.
Comparison of Healthcare Access Before and After the Coup
| Indicator | Pre-Coup (2020) | Current (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Operational hospitals | 1,200+ | Less than 400 |
| Healthcare workers active | ~100,000 | ~55,000 |
| WHO-verified attacks on health | Few | 70+ in 2025 |
| Availability of essential medicines | High | Critical shortages |
Personal Sacrifice and Systemic Failure
Elle describes feeling like she is failing her family. She earns barely enough to cover her own needs and cannot send money to her elderly parents. "We did everything we could for our country, but for ourselves and our families, we feel like we are failing," she says. This sentiment echoes across the medical community.
Key Takeaways from the Crisis
- Over 45,000 healthcare workers have joined the resistance, facing constant danger.
- Attacks on health facilities have increased 10-fold since 2021.
- Shortages of basic supplies threaten maternal and child health.
- International humanitarian law violations continue unchecked.
- Urgent global support is needed to prevent total collapse.
FAQ
What caused the healthcare crisis in Myanmar?
How are doctors like Elle surviving?
What can the international community do?
The Myanmar healthcare system is at a breaking point. Without immediate global intervention, countless more lives will be lost. Elle’s story is a powerful reminder of the human cost of conflict.