Article: Tel Aviv’s Ichilov Hospital: A refuge in times of war
Since the latest Hamas attacks, Tel Aviv’s Ichilov Hospital has been actively preparing to protect its patients in the event of armed conflict. With its underground parking area, this facility provides a safe and secure refuge for its patients and staff. We had the opportunity to visit this incredible development, providing you with an exclusive report.
The construction of this underground area was undertaken in 2006, after the Second Lebanon War, with the aim of ensuring the safety of patients in the event of an emergency. Capable of accommodating up to 700 beds out of the 1,600 in the hospital, this area is spread over three levels, bringing together all the necessary services.
When the alarm siren sounds, warning of an imminent attack, the staff of Ichilov Hospital must react quickly. They have one minute and a half to take the patients to the underground shelter. One minute and a half, a luxury according to Dr Franck Atlan, head of hand microsurgery, given the immediate proximity to the Gaza Strip where the safety time is limited to only 30 seconds.
This underground shelter has already been used to move certain patients, such as those in the dialysis department. In fact, these patients under treatment cannot be disconnected from their machines and cannot move to a safe place in the event of an alert. Thanks to this underground area, they can feel safe and continue their treatment in optimal conditions.
Tel Aviv’s Ichilov Hospital is a remarkable example of preparedness and responsiveness to danger. It demonstrates the commitment of medical staff to protect and care for their patients, even in the most difficult times.
In these times when armed conflicts persist in many regions of the world, this example should provoke reflection on the preparation of health establishments to face such situations. Ichilov Hospital in Tel Aviv is an inspiring model to follow in ensuring the safety of patients and staff in the most critical moments.