The lack of staff in the emergency-urgency service 118 in Sicily, and in particular in Messina and its province, returns to the center of the political debate. But for the Uil-Fpl of Messina it is not a last hour discovery: the complaint, explains the union, has been going on for years, without the institutions having given concrete answers.
“We have reported ambulances under staff everywhere, massacre shifts, young doctors fleeing the emergency service, bankruptcy management of the competent structures and zero investments in personal and technology” says the secretary General Livio Andronico.
The situation, according to the union, is now at the limit: «In Messina and in many municipalities in the province – from Milazzo to Patti, from Sant’Agata to Mistretta – the ambulances start with reduced crews and discovered shifts. The legislation imposes at least three operators, but there are often only two. The absences are not covered and the calls to recruit doctors are deserted. The result is that the rescue times are compromised and citizens remain without guarantees ».
The Uil-FPL speaks of “numbers of shame”: in Sicily there are 180 doctors of 118, out of 252 ambulances less than half is medicalized and the staff remains exposed to risks and aggressions “without any support”.
Direct criticisms also to the Region: «Today the health councilor Daniela Faraoni speaks of serious difficulties and an overall reform. Well, but where was the region when we reported all this? Where was it when we asked for hiring, security and discussion tables? We do not accept media catwalks ».
The union advances precise requests: «We want an immediate confrontation with the Health Department, a clear and public operational plan to enhance 118 and a real recognition to those who guarantee rescue despite everything. Enough silence and promises: it’s time for facts. If the institutions do not act, the Uil-Fpl of Messina will continue to be the uncomfortable voice that no one can silence ».