This is happening at the same time that medicines are unavailable. The tragedy of disease, stunted growth and death is compounded by the collapse of Iraq's health system. In theory, drugs are not embargoed. But they are nevertheless scarce. Iraq has no cash to import, and most foreign suppliers simply refuse to deal with the government.
Medical equipment suffers the same problem, so hospitals are in disrepair and can barely function.
Thus far medical colleges are still functioning, but no one knows how long they can maintain their standards. All left to seek work overseas. Medical education in Iraq had received heavy government support, and was conducted in English. The government also financed overseas studies of medical graduates. Some opted to remain abroad but most doctors returned to Iraq.