The temporary closure of the maternity ward at Gavardo Hospital, scheduled for July 1st, has raised concerns among healthcare workers, local associations, and the community. The Democratic Party of Valle Sabbia has strongly criticized regional policies that have led to this decision.
An Excellence Hospital in Decline
In the past, Gavardo Hospital stood out nationally for the quality of its services. Innovations such as water birth tubs attracted patients from other regions, contributing to the hospital’s reputation. However, in recent years, staff reductions and investment cuts have gradually compromised the hospital’s ability to adequately meet the needs of pregnant women.
Downgrading of Healthcare Facilities
Despite a continued demand for prenatal and postpartum services, the hospital has seen a decrease in the number of annual births managed. The Democratic Party views this phenomenon as part of a broader downgrading of healthcare services in Valle Sabbia and Alto Garda. The closure of the maternity ward is not seen as an isolated event but rather the end result of policies that have eroded accessibility and quality of the public healthcare system in the region.
Criticism of Regional Policy
The Democratic Party blames regional political choices for the current situation. In particular, they highlight the lack of a strategy aimed at protecting and enhancing local healthcare services. Although a new hemodynamics department has recently been inaugurated, doubts persist about the effectiveness of the measures taken to improve healthcare services.
The Need for Open Dialogue
According to the Democratic Party, it is crucial to promote open dialogue between institutions, local communities, and healthcare authorities to address the current challenges. So far, this dialogue has been limited to simply communicating the decisions made without a thorough analysis of the underlying causes. The reduction in staff at hospitals and territorial healthcare facilities is seen as a direct consequence of the regional policies adopted in recent years.
Italian Version
