Afghanistan: "This is our reality"

Photos by photojournalist Kate Holt

In this photofilm, patients and caregivers at Boost hospital, Helmand province, highlight - in their own voices - some of the realities of living in Afghanistan today, especially the challenges of accessing healthcare in a war-torn country. Throughout the country, the reality is that few health centres existing on paper are actually functioning. They often lack drugs and medical staff. Roads have become difficult and dangerous. For the patients, access to the few health structures that do work often mean great risk and expense to get to.

The anonymity of patients is respected by not identifying their faces or real names. Médecins Sans Frontières has worked in Boost hospital since end-2009, providing free, quality medical care in a weapons free environment.