Title: Tel Aviv’s Ichilov Hospital: An underground shelter to protect patients in times of conflict
Introduction :
Tel Aviv’s Ichilov Hospital, the city’s largest public facility, demonstrates exemplary organization to protect its patients and staff in times of armed conflict. Featuring an underground parking lot that can be transformed into an emergency hospital, this medical facility is prepared for all eventualities. In this article, we will take you behind the scenes of Ichilov Hospital and find out how it ensures the safety of its patients in the event of a critical situation.
A secure underground refuge for patients:
Ichilov Hospital has a specially designed area in its underground parking lot to accommodate patients in the event of war or attack. This area can accommodate up to 700 beds, out of a total of 1600 beds available in the hospital. The basements have been equipped with all the necessary elements to ensure the safety and comfort of patients and medical staff.
In the event of an alert, patients can be quickly transferred to this secure area, where all medical services are grouped on three levels. Hospital staff are trained to respond quickly and effectively when necessary, to ensure the safety and well-being of patients.
Careful preparation to deal with the emergency:
The medical staff at Ichilov Hospital are well aware of the challenges they may face in times of conflict. They have developed a precise action plan and are ready to react in the event of an emergency. Every minute counts when it comes to taking shelter, and medical personnel only have one minute and a half to reach a secure area in the event of an alert. This time constraint is even more critical for teams located near the border with Gaza, where they have only 30 seconds to take cover.
Patient transfers already carried out successfully:
Ichilov Hospital has already used its underground infrastructure during previous conflicts. Patients, including those in the dialysis department, were safely transferred to the hospital basement. This measure ensures that patients are not disconnected from the machines essential to their survival and can feel safe despite the conflict situation.
Conclusion :
Ichilov Hospital in Tel Aviv stands out for its commitment to protecting the lives and health of its patients, even in times of conflict. With its well-planned underground infrastructure, it provides a safe haven for patients and medical staff in the event of an emergency. This careful preparation and responsiveness are essential to ensure healthcare runs smoothly, even in the most difficult conditions.. Ichilov Hospital is a remarkable example of the resilience of the health system in the face of challenges imposed by conflict.