This year, 41 babies were born in ambulances in Portugal. Such statistics have never been seen before, according to data from the Portuguese health service. The difficult situation of women giving birth is influenced, among other things, by the closure of maternity wards.
Data from the Portuguese Ministry of Health, cited by the weekly Expresso, show that the largest number of babies were born in ambulances in the districts of Setubal, Leiria and Santarem, in the west of the country. The births often occurred on the way from one hospital to another and were the result of a widespread problem this year in Portugal closing obstetrics and gynecology departments, as well as emergency rooms.
SEE ALSO: “When we look at the statistics, at the terrifying numbers, we see how much there is to do”
According to the authorities, the difficulties in the functioning of hospital departments are mainly due to a shortage of staff. Since March, Portugal's medical services have been conducting at least two investigations into miscarriages that were allegedly caused by chaos in the health care system.
Healthcare workers on strike
Problems with the functioning of hospitals have intensified with the indefinite strike that began on Monday by nurses. Protesters are demanding pay rises, an improved mechanism for professional promotions and better working conditions. Doctors are also planning a two-day strike in Portuguese hospitals and medical clinics at the end of September.
Ambulance in Lisbon (illustrative photo)Jose HERNANDEZ Camera 51 / Shutterstock
Main image source: Jose HERNANDEZ Camera 51 / Shutterstock