Preparing for War: Baltic Nations Enhance Healthcare Infrastructure in Wake of Russian Threat
As tensions with Russia escalate, the Baltic nations are rapidly enhancing their healthcare infrastructures to prepare for the possibility of war.
The Gaze reports on this with reference to Politico.
Drawing crucial lessons from Ukraine's wartime medical response, Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia are making extensive preparations to ensure their hospitals and medical services remain operational in the face of potential military conflict.
In Lithuania, Vilnius University Hospital Santaros Clinics, located just 50 kilometers (31 miles) from the Belarusian border, is undergoing significant upgrades.
The hospital is constructing underground facilities, shelters, and helicopter landing pads to guarantee that it can continue to function even in the event of power and water disruptions.
Estonia is also taking proactive steps to secure its healthcare system. In addition to equipping paramedics and healthcare workers with ballistic vests, the country is preparing for communication breakdowns by distributing satellite phones and setting up mobile generators.
Ragnar Vaiknemets, Deputy Director-General of the Estonian Health Board, underscored the urgency of these efforts, stating, “It’s no longer a question of if Russia will attack, but when.”
A major concern in the Baltic states is the potential for significant personnel shortages.
A survey in Lithuania revealed that over a quarter of healthcare workers might flee in the case of war, while fewer than 40% are certain they would stay.
Estonia faces similar concerns, with many healthcare workers uncertain about their future commitment in the event of war.
In response to these challenges, the Baltic countries are investing in emergency medical supplies. Estonia has allocated €25 million for mass casualty stockpiles, including orthopedic gear, trauma kits, and medical supplies to sustain hospitals until external aid arrives.
Furthermore, Baltic nations are preparing for the possibility of receiving large numbers of refugees and casualties, particularly given their proximity to the frontlines.
By learning from Ukraine’s firsthand experiences with missile strikes and casualties on the frontline, the Baltic states are striving to build robust healthcare systems capable of withstanding the harshest conditions.
Read more on The Gaze: How Europe is Preparing for a Great War