European Hospitals Reported to Be Unprepared for a Potential War
At the forum in Austria, it was stated that healthcare systems in Europe fall short against war and security threats and contain various deficiencies.
It was announced at the European Health Forum held in Austria that there are significant deficiencies in the preparedness of hospitals in Europe against war and other security threats.
Assessments at the European Health Forum
At the European Health Forum held in Bad Hofgastein, Austria, the risks faced by healthcare systems following Russia's invasion of Ukraine were comprehensively addressed.
Differences in Preparedness Levels
Henriette Neumeyer, President of the European Hospital and Healthcare Federation, stated that there are significant differences between countries' preparedness levels, and shortcomings are observed even in strong systems like those in Germany and the Netherlands.
Attacks on Healthcare Facilities in Ukraine
Jarno Habicht, the World Health Organization's representative in Ukraine, reported that the WHO has recorded approximately 3,500 attacks on healthcare services in Ukraine, including hospitals and ambulances.
Supply Chain and Infrastructure Issues
Stating that pharmaceutical warehouses have been increasingly destroyed in recent months, Habicht indicated that supply chains have been disrupted and attacks on civilian infrastructure have increased the need for humanitarian aid.
Recommendations for Crisis Resilience
Experts pointed out that to increase the resilience of healthcare systems, pharmaceutical and medical supply chains must be strengthened, staff shortages must be addressed, and cross-border cooperation must be enhanced.