Runa Mackay

Runa was a medical doctor who dedicated much of her career to improving healthcare for Palestinian communities. 

After graduating from Edinburgh Medical School in the 1950s, she began working in Israel in 1954 through a short-term post at a hospital in Nazareth. She chose to remain there for the next 30 years. 

During this time, Runa worked in Palestinian hospitals and later took on roles focused on public health and community care. She helped to establish the Galilee Society for Health, Research and Service, an organisation aimed at improving health conditions and access to care. She also worked as a district medical officer for the Israeli health ministry.

Her work focused on addressing inequalities in healthcare, particularly for people living in villages around Nazareth. Through both clinical practice and public health efforts, she sought to improve living conditions and access to services.

Runa’s career reflects a long-term commitment to under-served communities. Her decision to remain and work in the region for decades shows her dedication to improving health outcomes for those facing challenging circumstances.