[Editorial] Human resources for health--investing in action (Lancet)

A strong workforce is essential for underpinning a resilient health system. In a letter in today`s issue, Fouad M Fouad and colleagues highlight the heavy toll of civil war on Syria`s health infrastructure and human resources. Such enduring crises lead to loss of vital health workers as a result of death or displacement to neighbouring countries, damage to and overburdening of health facilities, and interruption of health programmes. The exodus of skilled workers is not only challenging the delivery of humanitarian assistance but will also affect Syria`s recovery.