Han Yangim of Buk-gu Council:
"Weekend and Nighttime Gaps Remain a Concern"
With the establishment of Dalbit Children's Hospital in Buk-gu, Gwangju, the gap in nighttime pediatric care in the region is expected to be partially alleviated. However, due to shorter operating hours compared to other districts, there have been calls for additional support to ensure stable pediatric care in the area.
Han Yangim, a member of the Buk-gu Council (Geon-guk, Yangsan, and Sinyong-dong), stated during a five-minute free speech at the 301st temporary session of the Buk-gu Council held the previous day, "It is very welcome news that Dalbit Children's Hospital has been designated in Buk-gu," but added, "It is regrettable that the operating hours are shorter compared to other districts."
Han continued, "While Nam-gu and Gwangsan-gu operate until 11 p.m. or midnight every day, Buk-gu only operates until 11 p.m. on weekdays and until 6 p.m. on weekends and holidays," emphasizing, "To prevent gaps during vulnerable hours when children may become ill, Buk-gu also needs to expand its operating hours."
She further stated, "Dalbit Children's Hospital plays an important role in reducing the inconvenience of nighttime care for children with minor illnesses and easing the burden of medical expenses," and added, "We will establish a legal basis for the necessary financial and administrative support for operations through the enactment of ordinances." She also said, "In line with Buk-gu's ongoing low birth rate measures, continuous support at the district level is needed to ensure this does not become a short-lived project."
The two hospitals designated as Dalbit Children's Hospitals in Buk-gu are Aimam Children's Hospital (Yangsan-dong) and Mirae Children's Hospital (Ochi-dong). Starting in April, the two hospitals plan to open seven days a week on a rotating basis. On weekdays, the hospitals will operate on different days, and on weekends, both hospitals will provide care.
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