What criteria are used to prioritise patients for surgery?

Humanity Direct prioritises patients for surgery based on a combination of factors designed to ensure the greatest impact on children’s lives and communities. One primary criterion is the urgency of the medical condition. Conditions that pose an immediate threat to a child’s health, such as life-threatening congenital anomalies or conditions with rapid deterioration, are given priority. This ensures that the most critical cases are addressed promptly, often saving lives. We also make a point of making sure conditions that can appear benign initially but frequently escalate in later life, are dealt with.

The organisation also considers the accessibility of treatment for the patient. Many children live in rural or remote areas with limited healthcare access. Humanity Direct often prioritises those who have no other realistic means of obtaining the care they need. This way, the charity bridges the gap for underserved populations, extending surgical interventions to children who otherwise would remain untreated.

Financial need is another essential criterion. Humanity Direct focuses on helping families with limited resources who cannot afford life-saving or life-changing surgeries. Many of these families have no way to save for costly medical procedures. By covering the costs, Humanity Direct alleviates financial pressure and removes barriers to essential healthcare.

Finally, Humanity Direct looks at the broader potential impact of the surgery. Surgeries that enable children to return to school, play with peers, or contribute to their communities in future are often prioritised. Addressing issues such as vision issues, severe burns, or hernias can enable a child to regain mobility, boost self-esteem, and relieve the psychological burdens associated with stigmatising conditions. This approach ensures that each intervention provides holistic support, maximising the potential for lasting change.