Mayors of 16 municipalities throughout North Macedonia have endorsed a proposal of the Ministry of Health and the Commission of Infectious Diseases for creation of regional coronavirus centers.
According to the Health Ministry, the decision aims to prepare the health system for the fall wave of COVID-19 by ensuring appropriate treatment and triage of patients who have tested positive for coronavirus or are suspected to have been infected, without compromising regular hospital activities and the health of other patients.
Regional COVID centers activities include setting up modular hospitals, as well as locating and adjusting buildings that could serve as temporary COVID centers.
On July 10, at the initiative of Health Minister Venko Filipche and with the support of the Association of the Units of Local Self-Government of North Macedonia (ZELS) mayors of the municipalities of Gevgelija, Kumanovo, Kavadarci, Strumica, Kichevo, Debar, Gostivar, Struga, Kochani, Ohrid, Veles, Tetovo, Shitp, Bitola, Resen and Prilep held an online working meeting.
Infrastructural demands are closely related to staffing, equipment and resources, the Health Ministry said in a press release Monday, and problems could arise if demands aren’t properly met.
Thus, the press release added, strategic coordination, proactive planning, option assessment and prioritization are key factors in the fight against coronavirus.
“Mayors commended the Ministry’s initiative and accepted its coordination proposal. They expressed willingness to put all available resources at the disposal of health authorities. Activities in anticipation of the fall COVID-19 wave will continue on July 14, when Health Ministry representatives and the Commission for Infectious Diseases are set to meet with hospital directors,” the press release read.
