Türkiye is taking a proactive stance in sharing its expertise in disaster health management with other nations, highlighting the importance of global collaboration in safeguarding lives during significant emergencies. At the World Health Organization (WHO) Ministerial Conference held in Istanbul, themed “Protecting Health in Earthquakes – Strengthening Health Security Through Earthquake Emergency Management,” Health Minister Kemal Memişoğlu underscored the global nature of earthquakes and called for scientific partnerships and international unity to tackle these challenges.
The conference saw participation from representatives of around 40 countries, all convened to discuss strategies for enhancing disaster preparedness and bolstering healthcare systems against earthquakes and other crises. Minister Memişoğlu pointed to Türkiye’s extensive experience in disaster response, particularly after the catastrophic earthquakes in February 2023. During these events, the country deployed over 138,000 healthcare workers, emergency responders, and support staff. In addition, Türkiye executed one of its largest medical evacuation efforts, moving over 51,000 patients to hospitals outside the affected areas, and swiftly set up field hospitals and emergency medical facilities.
Memişoğlu highlighted the strides Türkiye has made in fortifying its healthcare infrastructure, focusing on investments in resilient hospitals, emergency medical services, digital health initiatives, air ambulance operations, and National Medical Rescue Teams (UMKE). Among the innovations showcased was the GÖKBEY ambulance helicopter, an indigenously developed aircraft designed to provide intensive care in disaster scenarios, particularly in challenging terrains.
Looking forward, Türkiye is intensifying its disaster preparedness measures, with a particular focus on the potential threat of a major earthquake in the Marmara region. The nation has unveiled a comprehensive earthquake preparedness model and introduced what it claims is the world’s first Public Health Services in Earthquakes Guide, which includes detailed response strategies for Istanbul and other high-risk locations.
Memişoğlu reiterated Türkiye’s dedication to aiding countries affected by disasters by offering its expertise, skilled personnel, and emergency response capabilities. He emphasized that no country can effectively handle large-scale disasters in isolation, advocating for a cooperative international approach to disaster management.