While many of us consider access to healthcare a basic human right, for refugees and vulnerable communities, its availability and accessibility remain unequal, often limited to those who are economically advantaged.
This striking division leaves displaced people without the medical support they urgently need. A gap that was recognised by one of our partners, Med’EqualiTeam, a non-profit organisation dedicated to bringing high-quality healthcare to refugees and others facing socio-economic barriers to accessing medical care.
Founded by dedicated and passionate professionals in 2018, the Med’EqualiTeam’s aims are simple yet impactful: to provide primary healthcare for refugees, relief for local medical services, and be a neutral, independent, and trustworthy point of contact for refugees.
Initially, their efforts were concentrated on treating thousands of patients on the Greek island of Samos. However, following the relocation of the Samos camp, Med’EqualiTeam expanded its operations to offer support to refugees in Poland (2022 to 2023) and in Libya (2023 to 2024). They are currently assisting in Northern Greece.
Driven by the urgent need for medical care for displaced people, particularly on the Greek island of Samos, the organisation aims to provide the same services to displaced and vulnerable individuals facing significant barriers to accessing medical services. These barriers can take various forms, often involving financial constraints, language differences, and a lack of identification documents. Additionally, logistical challenges can make it difficult for individuals to reach clinics, while a general distrust or misunderstanding of local healthcare systems further complicates the situation.
The organisation’s work is profoundly important as it helps alleviate the burden on already stretched public healthcare systems, fostering better relations between displaced communities and local populations. Additionally, by providing direct medical care, their work also promotes human rights following Sustainable Development Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being, a global mission to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all, regardless of location or income.
We’re continually in awe of the amazing people who found grassroots organisations like Med’EqualiTeam and we want to support them however we can – financially and with advice. Our partners bridge critical gaps in the lives of refugees – from restoring dignity through healthcare to providing education, protection and other essential support to displaced communities.
These efforts remind us that meaningful change happens when our communities and people work together to help people with what they truly need.
See our partner impact in action
