Izmir Earthquakes and Resilience of Healthcare Institutions
Two years have passed since the February 6 earthquakes. This process has once again revealed how important health services are, especially in cities in earthquake zones such as Izmir. The Izmir Branches of the Health and Social Service Workers' Union (SES) have recently made a statement regarding the need to increase the earthquake resistance of health institutions, considering the movement of fault lines in the Aegean Sea. with serious warnings .
Earthquake Resilience of Hospitals and Health Services
Hospitals and family health centers that provide inpatient health services in Izmir in particular are sounding the alarm for earthquakes. Recent reports have shown that some hospitals is not earthquake resistant SES has held meetings with officials at the headquarters level and submitted written applications in order to obtain information on the earthquake resistance of hospitals as of November 2024. However, Unfortunately There has been no progress on this issue yet. This situation shows that healthcare providers need to take urgent measures.
Past Pains and Current Risks
The Izmir earthquake in 2020 affected Buca Seyfi Demirsoy Training and Research Hospital with the release of This situation has resulted in a painful example of the health system in Izmir. It is of critical importance for hospitals to be robust in disaster situations in terms of the sustainability of health services. Therefore, hospitals in Izmir earthquake-proofing If the necessary precautions are not taken, new painful events will not be prevented.
Call to Relevant Institutions
Information from some health institutions such as Menemen State Hospital and Buca Maternity Hospital reveals that these hospitals also need to take urgent measures. In terms of providing health services, hospitals damage in disaster situations, will have undesirable consequences for both healthcare professionals and patients receiving services. Therefore, in order to make healthcare institutions earthquake resistant, We call on the authorities to return to duty.
The Importance of Safety in Healthcare
Our country is located in a region where earthquakes occur frequently. Therefore, providing health services in buildings that are not suitable for earthquakes, an irresponsible approach It is evaluated as. Taking urgent measures for the continuity and security of health services directly affects public health. Public institutions should not restrict spending on hospitals under the name of saving. It should not be forgotten that, There is no saving on human life.
Earthquake Preparedness and Strengthening the Health System
Increasing the resilience of health institutions against earthquakes is not limited to strengthening their physical structures. At the same time, it is also of great importance for health workers to receive training on how to act in disaster situations. In this context, the trainings to be organized for health workers disaster management training, will make service delivery more effective. Strengthening the health system will create a safe living space for every segment of society.
As a result
Increasing the earthquake resistance of health institutions in Izmir is of vital importance for both health workers and patients. As the Health and Social Service Workers Union, officials We call on you to take the necessary precautions. Being prepared for natural disasters such as earthquakes is essential to minimize the negative effects that will be experienced. let's not forgetHealth services are one of the most basic needs of society and the sustainability of these services is only possible with a solid infrastructure.
