Harnessing Volunteerism to Build Resilient Healthcare in Times of Crisis
In places where healthcare systems collapse due to war, poverty, or neglect, innovation is not optional. It is essential. Volunteer-based nonprofit models have become one of the most flexible and effective ways to respond to these urgent challenges. My experience with Gxza Health, a telehealth organization serving displaced patients in Gaza and beyond, has taught me that when professionals come together across borders, they can rebuild access to care in the most difficult conditions.
Gxza Health began during a crisis. As Gaza’s hospitals shut down and patients lost access to doctors, specialists, and medications, we brought together a global network of volunteers to provide remote consultations and deliver life-saving care. Without clinics or hospitals of our own, we relied on technology, local partnerships, and a shared sense of responsibility. What started as a small group is now a growing network that provides free care to over one thousand patients every month.
This work has shown me that volunteerism, when organized well, can be more than support. It can build systems. Through coordinated triage, remote medical care, medication delivery, and follow-up, we created a new model of healthcare that reached people when everything else failed. And we did it with limited funding but with deep commitment from professionals around the world.
Egypt has both a strong medical community and large healthcare needs. A nonprofit that connects global professionals to support education, training, and service in Egypt can make a real difference. HPNE’s vision is timely and important. I fully support this effort and believe this platform will help strengthen Egypt’s healthcare from the ground up.
Volunteer work is not just about filling a gap. It is about creating new ways forward. With the right intention, it becomes a path to equity, resilience, and healing. I am honored to contribute to this launch and pray that this new initiative brings benefit to all those it reaches.
