Genel Sağlık-İş Statement on City Hospitals: The Issue Is Not Buildings, But Public Health
Genel Sağlık-İş emphasized that the debate on city hospitals should be addressed not merely through new buildings, but through the public's right to health and public investment methods.
In a statement issued by Genel Sağlık-İş, it was stated that city hospital projects should be evaluated within the framework of public health, investment methods, and the public's right to health rather than just building construction.
Investment Method and Public Health
Genel Sağlık-İş stated that the debate on city hospitals should not be handled solely through whether a new hospital building is constructed or not. The statement drew attention to the importance of whose needs the investment will serve and through which method it will be carried out.
Transformation of Healthcare Services into a Commercial Sphere
The union criticized the long-term rent and various service fee payments made to operating companies in hospitals built through the Public-Private Partnership model. It was argued that leaving services such as radiology, catering, and cleaning to the private sector weakens the public character of healthcare.
Regional Health Needs and Planning
It was emphasized that the general health needs of the region should be taken into account in city hospital planning. It was stated that evaluating Zonguldak, Bartın, and Karabük together in terms of healthcare services is essential.
Transportation and Emergency Criteria
The statement pointed out that transportation conditions, public transit facilities, response times for emergency cases to reach the hospital, and the capacity of existing hospitals must be addressed together.
Emphasis on Public-Led Investment and Personnel
Genel Sağlık-İş noted that healthcare investments should be carried out directly by the state. It was requested that institutions remain under public ownership and be operated by secure public personnel.
Participatory Process and the Public's Right to Health
Stating that decisions regarding Zonguldak's healthcare future should not be made by administrators alone, it was demanded that health workers and the local public be included in the process.