Emergency Services in Libya An Initial Assessment for Improvement

Abstract

Libya had just emerged from its civil conflict which brought the downfall of the old government structure. The aspiration of the new Libya is to bring development which they felt they deserved in both social and political aspects of their lives. Health care system is one area which was recognized by the transition government that needs immediate

improvement. In view of this, the authors perceived emergency services to be a good starting point for improvement against the gargantuan task of the improving the whole system. It is said that emergency care is the front door of the community access to their health care, thus poor emergency services can easily contribute to the discontentment of the community.

This study is a broad initial descriptive assessment of the provision of a hospital-based emergency service. The goal is to gain critical insight of how emergency services is provided and maintained. It attempts to cover a wide range of concerns ranging from admission, intervention, maintenance, protocols, professional development, facilities, and physical condition. It is hoped that the findings may help policy makers in its effort to totally bring meaningful changes to health care system.

The study used the combinations of observations, interview, and prepared questionnaires to conveniently sampled thirty (30) health care providers directly and indirectly involved in the emergency services of the hospital.

Results and recommendations: The hospital is providing 'accident and trauma' services – a limited level in emergency hierarchy of care as against a broad spectrum emergency care on the other end of the hierarchy. The present protocol of examination and admission of severe emergency cases is selective, that is according to what the staff can handle in the area. This has contributed some complexities in the other unit of the hospital like the ICU. Episodic health conditions are directed to the OPD which also contributed to confusion on the part of the patients. Likewise, the present physical facility needs upliftment, from increasing floor area, adding amenities, and upgrading of equipment. New and comfortable facility can help patients and family members lessen psychological burden of emergency condition.

Overall, staffs' expertise and skills no matter how excellent cannot be totally appreciated if the structures and organizational protocols are disorganized. Addressing the issues found in this study will hopefully bring the much needed reform that may ultimately bring the much desired building of trust and confidence of the community – the final yardstick.