Family health centers operate in containers in Hatay's Defne
Even 44 months after the earthquake in Hatay's Defne district, the difficult operations of family health centers in containers and the infrastructure shortcomings faced by healthcare workers have come to light.
Despite 44 months having passed since the earthquakes centered in Kahramanmaraş, family health centers in Hatay's Defne district continue to provide services under difficult conditions in containers.
Healthcare Services in Containers
In the Turunçlu and Harbiye family health centers located in Hatay's Defne district, efforts are being made to provide healthcare services to approximately 15,000 to 20,000 people in a five-unit structure consisting of containers.
Infrastructure and Toilet Problems
Lacking basic amenities, these centers do not even have toilets; it is reported that a pregnant nurse has to walk 200 meters and cross a road with vehicular traffic just to use the restroom.
Difficult Working Conditions
Healthcare workers, who are themselves earthquake victims, are affected by extreme heat in the summer and cold in the winter, and perform their duties in an exhausted and fatigued state in these locations that lack roads and patient waiting areas.
Evacuation Pressure and Call to the Ministry
While no new family health center is being built, it is stated that doctors are facing pressure to evacuate, and the Ministry of Health is being urged to build earthquake-resistant buildings and keep the promises that were made.