The Impact of Political Variables on the Quality of Health Services in Governmental Hospitals – Case Study: Al-Shifa Medical Complex

The Gaza Strip’s hospitals and health centers face severe shortages of medical devices and essential equipment due to prolonged political instability. This study aimed to assess the impact of political variables on the quality of health services at Al-Shifa Medical Complex. A descriptive analytical approach was adopted. Data were collected through 15 field observation visits and five structured interviews with key healthcare stakeholders, including physicians, nurses, and administrators. Observations focused on equipment availability, staff adequacy, and service delivery efficiency. Findings revealed that the prolonged Israeli blockade and internal Palestinian political division have critically undermined healthcare quality, availability, and resilience at Al-Shifa Medical Complex. Key challenges include shortages of essential medicines, medical equipment, and trained personnel; frequent power outages; inadequate hospital infrastructure; and staff-to-patient ratios averaging 1:12 per shift, all of which delay treatments, reduce patient safety, and compromise specialized services such as dialysis and neonatal care. Political instability directly affects staff capacity and the efficiency of health services, underscoring the urgent need for strategic interventions to strengthen hospital resilience. Hospital administrators and policymakers should prioritize equipping departments with essential medical devices, ensuring reliable medication supplies, and maintaining adequate staffing levels. Strengthening professional development and staff incentives, along with creating a safe, sustainable healthcare environment, are essential to improving service quality and system resilience. These measures support the strategic objectives of the Palestinian Ministry of Health and help safeguard healthcare delivery under political instability.