The IDF evacuation from Southern Lebanon in 2000: Impact on the delivery of health care to displaced Lebanese population

Background: The State of Israel controlled a protective security zone in southern Lebanon from 1982 until May 2000, when the Israel Defense Forces (I.D.F.) evacuated this area within two days. Officers and soldiers of the South Lebanese Army, a local militia, which had formerly cooperated with the I.D.F., chose to come to Israel with their families. The provision for the health needs of this displaced population of over 5,861 persons was coordinated by the Northern Region Health Office of the Ministry of Health. Aim: To describe the deployment and provision of health care for this displaced population and to present the lessons learned. Methods: Data was collected from interviews with the personnel most actively involved in the decisions and execution of the enterprise, as well as from relevant documents. Results: The main health needs of the displaced South Lebanese were related to anxiety, outbreak of chickenpox, dental problems and provision of medical equipment for the disabled. Conclusion: The experience accrued by the Northern Region Health Office over the years in provision of care to displaced populations at short notice was implemented. Cooperation within the health sector and between the health services and the military and defense forces was invaluable and essential to deal successfully with this unusual situation.