MADRE's Sister Organization in Palestine

Palestinian Medical Relief Society (PMRS)

The Palestinian Medical Relief Society (PMRS) is a grassroots, community-based Palestinian health organization. PMRS was founded in 1979 by a group of Palestinian doctors and health professionals committed to providing health services to women and families in Palestine. One of the biggest threats to public health in Palestine is the Israeli military occupation, which has undermined overall health by exacerbating poverty and malnutrition; and blocked people's access to health service by restricting the right to travel—sometimes even from one village to the next. In addition, the Israeli military has launched military attacks on hospitals, clinics, ambulances and the Palestinian Ministry of Health.

PMRS programs emphasize prevention, education, community participation, and the empowerment of people. PMRS doctors and health workers believe that health is a starting point for community development. By working with young people and supporting community institutions, PMRS is involved in many aspects of community life.

PMRS health programs focus on the needs of the most vulnerable members of Palestinian society: women, children, and the poor in rural villages, refugee camps, and urban centers. PMRS runs a network of healthcare centers, most of which are located in rural and marginalized areas. These centers offer services in general medicine, women's health, child health, the management of chronic diseases, emergency care, and they provide medications. PMRS mobile clinics serve people who cannot access healthcare centers because of Israeli restrictions on movement, such as military curfews.