At a recent World Health Organization (WHO) Ministerial Conference held in Istanbul, Türkiye’s Health Minister, Kemal Memişoğlu, emphasized the country’s dedication to sharing its disaster health management expertise globally. The conference, titled “Protecting Health in Earthquakes – Strengthening Health Security Through Earthquake Emergency Management,” underscored the importance of international collaboration in safeguarding lives during significant emergencies. Representatives from around 40 nations gathered to discuss strategies for enhancing disaster preparedness and reinforcing healthcare systems against earthquakes and similar crises.
Memişoğlu pointed out that earthquakes pose a universal challenge that necessitates scientific cooperation and global solidarity. He drew attention to Türkiye’s extensive experience in disaster response, particularly following the catastrophic earthquakes in February 2023. In response to those events, Türkiye mobilized over 138,000 healthcare professionals, emergency responders, and support staff. The nation also undertook a massive medical evacuation, transporting more than 51,000 patients to hospitals beyond the affected areas, and swiftly set up field hospitals and emergency medical facilities.
In bolstering its healthcare infrastructure, Türkiye has invested in strengthening hospitals, emergency medical services, digital health systems, air ambulance operations, and National Medical Rescue Teams (UMKE). The health minister highlighted the GÖKBEY ambulance helicopter, a domestically developed aircraft designed to deliver intensive care in challenging terrains during disasters. These advancements reflect Türkiye’s proactive stance in preparing for future emergencies, including the possibility of a significant earthquake in the Marmara region.
Türkiye’s comprehensive approach to earthquake preparedness includes the introduction of a detailed earthquake preparedness model and what the country claims is the world’s first Public Health Services in Earthquakes Guide. This guide provides specific response plans for Istanbul and other high-risk areas, showcasing Türkiye’s commitment to readiness in the face of potential disasters.
Memişoğlu reiterated Türkiye’s pledge to assist disaster-affected countries by sharing its knowledge, trained personnel, and emergency response capabilities. He stressed that no single nation can tackle large-scale disasters alone, highlighting the critical need for international cooperation and support in disaster management efforts.