23 Hospitals in Aceh and All Hospitals in North Sumatra and West Sumatra are Operating After the Disaster
JAKARTA - The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has ensured that all government hospitals in Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra have resumed operations after the flood and landslide disasters. To strengthen health services for affected communities, the number of health workers has also been increased.
Head of the BNPB Disaster Data, Information, and Communication Center, Abdul Muhari, said that health services in disaster-affected areas continued to be gradually restored.
"In terms of health services, all government hospitals in Aceh are operating," said Abdul Muhari at a press conference in Jakarta, Tuesday, December 23.
BNPB noted that there were 23 government hospitals in Aceh and all of them had served patients. However, the Aceh Tamiang Regional General Hospital is still cleaning the remaining flood materials, especially in the first floor inpatient room. The cleaning process is carried out by involving the TNI, Polri, and volunteers, accompanied by repairs and replacement of affected health equipment.
"One hospital in Aceh Tamiang is still cleaning the first floor of the inpatient room and replacing damaged medical equipment," said Abdul.
In addition to hospitals, first-level health services are also continuing to be restored. In Aceh, out of a total of 307 health centers, 288 health centers have been operating, while the other 19 have not been able to function. BNPB noted that 30 health centers in Aceh suffered heavy damage due to the disaster.
In North Sumatra, all 35 government hospitals have been operating normally. A total of 325 health centers are also functioning, although 36 health centers were previously recorded as having suffered heavy damage.
Meanwhile, in West Sumatra, all 29 government hospitals have resumed operations. Of the 233 existing health centers, all are functioning, although two health centers were classified as severely damaged.
Abdul added that the Ministry of Health periodically sends assistance in the form of health equipment, medicines, medical logistics, and additional health workers to the affected areas.
"The Ministry of Health has sent additional health workers to strengthen services, especially in areas with limited land access," he said.
BNPB also appreciates the role of volunteers and community organizations who have helped restore health services in disaster-affected areas.
"Thank you to all volunteers and community organizations who continue to open free health services and psychosocial services, both in Aceh and in West Sumatra," concluded Abdul Muhari.