UAE unveils number of patients relocated from flooded hospitals amid heavy rains
Torrential rain wreaked havoc in Ajman, inundating hospitals and posing grave challenges to patient care.
Over 150 patients found themselves in peril as the deluge submerged medical facilities, particularly in low-lying areas like Al Nuaimia. This natural disaster not only impeded access to crucial healthcare services but also hampered the efforts of medical personnel.
In response to this crisis, a hospital group in Ajman demonstrated remarkable resilience and compassion. They swiftly mobilized to accommodate patients from various healthcare establishments and independent clinics. Despite the adverse conditions, paramedics, nurses, and doctors at Thumbay University Hospital in Al Jurf worked tirelessly to ensure a seamless transition for patients. Dr. Shihad Khader, the COO of Thumbay University Hospital, emphasized the urgency of relocating patients, including those in critical care, post-operative recovery, and pediatric units, to the larger and better-equipped Al Jurf facility.
Thumbay's Al Jurf facility, with its advanced medical equipment and a capacity of 350 beds, played a pivotal role in ensuring uninterrupted access to essential medical services amid the crisis. Dr. Khader highlighted the hospital's ability to mobilize resources effectively, aided by its pool of 150 specialists. Power outages further exacerbated the situation in other hospitals across Ajman. The Thumbay group extended its support to these facilities, particularly in addressing disruptions in radiology services. Dr. Khader emphasized the need for a coordinated response to meet the escalating demand for medical services necessitated by the influx of referred patients from affected areas.
To overcome logistical challenges, special arrangements were made to facilitate the transportation of medical staff to hospitals during the floods. Buses and heavy vehicles equipped to navigate flooded streets were deployed, ensuring the safety of personnel. Additionally, a robust communication network was established to provide timely updates and guidance to staff members. The strategic distribution of ambulances across all hospitals ensured round-the-clock availability for patient transport and emergency care. Emergency rooms remained fully operational, with adequate staffing levels and well-stocked supplies to address diverse medical emergencies.
Akbar Moideen Thumbay, vice president of Thumbay Healthcare, underscored the importance of collaboration among medical practitioners during challenging times. He reiterated the commitment of Thumbay Healthcare to support the broader healthcare community by offering diagnostic, scanning, and laboratory services to facilities facing staffing shortages and power outages. In essence, the relocation effort and collaborative response underscored the resilience and dedication of healthcare professionals in Ajman, ensuring that patient care remained a top priority despite the adversities posed by the relentless rains.
