LOC13:47
10:47 GMT
GAZA, Feb 1 (KUNA) -- Health authorities in the Gaza Strip on Sunday warned of a rapid deterioration in the health situation, saying that around 6,000 patients and wounded civilians in "critical condition" urgently require medical evacuation to save their lives.
The warning came after official information indicated that the Rafah crossing had been opened on a limited experimental basis to allow the transfer of a small number of wounded patients, with more regular operation expected to begin on Monday under a mechanism permitting the exit of 150 people per day in exchange for the entry of 50 people into the enclave.
Health officials said the number of patients and wounded in need of treatment outside Gaza far exceeds the current evacuation capacity, stressing that many critical cases cannot withstand delays and that continuing with the current procedures would mean evacuation operations could take years.
They added that at least 500 patients need to be evacuated daily to ease suffering and prevent further deterioration of the health sector.
In the same context, Director of Al-Shifa Medical Complex Dr. Mohammad Abu Salmiya said that nearly 50 percent of kidney dialysis patients have died over the past two years of war and blockade due to the severe collapse of medical capabilities.
Abu Salmiya noted that more than 70 percent of essential medicines are currently unavailable, adding that the complex operates only 34 dialysis machines to serve nearly 750 patients, amid increasing pressure following the destruction of other major hospitals in the Strip.
He called for urgent action to facilitate the travel of patients in need of kidney transplants or specialized care unavailable in Gaza, warning that the continuation of the current situation would lead to further loss of life.
Gaza's health system has been experiencing severe deterioration following repeated attacks on hospitals and medical centers, coupled with restrictions on the entry of medical supplies and the continued closure of border crossings, leaving thousands of patients deprived of adequate treatment. (end)
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