General Grzegorz Gielerak stated that Poland’s civilian healthcare system needs to prepare for potential armed conflict during the Health Challenges Congress.
Limited Protected Spaces in Hospitals
Poland is currently inadequately prepared for potential threats, including armed conflict, due to limitations in personnel reserves and a scarcity of protected medical facilities. Approximately 8% of Polish hospitals meet the standards for protected medical care.
Need for Integrated Training
There is insufficient practice and integration between the Military and Civilian Health Services, hindering their ability to effectively fulfill medical security tasks. A common training language is crucial for successful collaboration.
Material and Pharmaceutical Security Concerns
Poland’s independence in pharmaceutical security is limited, estimated at around 32-35%. General Gielerak emphasized the need for accelerated action in this area, alongside ensuring adequate material security.
Preparing Civilian Hospitals for Conflict
Each leading military hospital or medical entity, responsible for one of Poland’s eight medical security zones, is collaborating with the civilian healthcare sector to prepare it for the threat of war.
Intensive meetings, training sessions, and agreements are underway to prepare the civilian segment for such threats, according to General Gielerak.