08.10.2014
Translation from Turkish by translators for justice
Source: http://www.bianet.org/bianet/saglik/158996-suruc-tan-bir-hekimin-cigligi
Prof. Dr. Cem Terzi*
The following report covers the top items of urgency that need to be addressed based on day-long observation and volunteer work at Suruç State Hospital.
1- The dreaded street clashes in Kobanê have started, resulting in a significant surge in the number of injuries and casualties. Around 10 corpses have been brought to the hospital today. The number of heavily injured who were treated here and then referred to either Şanlıurfa or Diyarbakır is around 60. Notably, injured civilians have been admitted in the evening. We might encounter a more severe situation tomorrow and in the upcoming days.
2- It is of utmost importance that as a community of physicians, we should call out to political authorities both in Turkey and around the world to take action in order to prevent a massacre in Kobanê. In this respect, an initiative by Turkish Medical Association (TTB) and the Union of Health and Social Service Workers (SES) should have priority over any healthcare they will provide.
3- A field hospital should urgently be established between the border and Suruç, including an operation room and an intensive care unit. This is the only way some of the injured could survive. As an example; an 18-year-old individual with femoral fracture died of hemorrhage during transporation. Some of the casualties could have been saved if on-site treatment could be provided. (more…)