The recent visit of the regional Welfare Councillor, Guido Bertolaso, to the Gavardo hospital has sparked extensive debate regarding the current situation of the healthcare facility. During the meeting, citizens voiced their requests and concerns about the potential downsizing of services offered by the hospital, which plays a crucial role for the local community.
The Commitment of the Lombardy Region
Bertolaso emphasized the strategic importance of the Gavardo hospital for the surrounding area and assured that the Pediatrics department would resume full operations as soon as possible. He stated: “The facility is essential for residents, and there will be no further reductions or suspensions.” However, the regional representative also acknowledged the existing challenges, particularly the shortage of medical and nursing staff.
Structural Issues
A letter sent by the La Roccia Committee, signed by President Roberta Caldera, highlighted numerous critical issues faced by the hospital. This institution serves a large user base that includes various locations in the upper Garda and Vallesabbia regions, covering a distance of about 50 kilometers. As the only hospital in the area, its operational capacity has been compromised by staff shortages. Several services have been suspended or significantly reduced, directly impacting the quality of care provided.
The Future of Emergency Services
Another point raised concerns the emergency department, which is already under pressure due to an increase in patient visits. Many patients who should have been referred to specialists are now being managed by the emergency doctors themselves, creating overloads and increasing wait times. The letter highlights how this situation is exacerbated by external factors such as the industrial and tourist presence in the area, along with an aging population.
Essential Services to Maintain
The Committee has expressed strong concern over the decline of essential services at the hospital. Among the main requests is the need to ensure an efficient radiology service, a less burdened emergency department, and an active pediatrics department throughout the year. Additionally, there are calls to restore operational capacity in the orthopedics department and to increase availability in outpatient clinics.
Greater Citizen Participation
Finally, a request has been made to amend the regulations of the mayors’ conference to expand citizen participation in decision-making meetings. Currently limited to once a year in an informative format, this change would allow citizens to be informed about decisions that directly affect their healthcare services.
Italian Version
