With over 50% of operating rooms not fortified, staff must exit during rocket attacks – report

More than half the operating rooms in Israeli hospitals are not fortified against missile attacks, according to a report by the Kan national broadcaster.

As a result, nearly all medical staff must exit such operating rooms and go to safe areas when rocket sirens sound — except during critical lifesaving surgeries.

In addition, only 30-40 percent of hospital beds in Israel are in protected spaces.

The Health Ministry reportedly plans to ultimately fortify all hospital wards, dialysis centers, and blood banks at the cost of NIS 4.5 billion ($1.2 billion). The idea is for all hospitals and medical facilities to be able to function as “isolated islands” for up to 72 hours without outside help during a war or another emergency.

In the near term, the ministry hopes to achieve protection of 50% of hospital beds — an additional two thousand — in the next two months at a cost of NIS 200 million.