Logistics of medical care in rural Afghanistan.

The logistics of maintaining and supplying underground clinics located in war-torn rural Afghanistan are presented. Medical supplies are transported by pack animals over mountainous terrain, and must be specially packaged for the rigorous journey. Twenty percent of supplies are lost en route due to attacks or accidents. Medical and surgical equipment, some of which had to be specially designed, must be lightweight and durable. The system of monitoring clinic efficacy is also discussed.