The Aristide Le Dantec hospital in Dakar will close its doors from Monday, August 15. This establishment, built in 1912, will be rehabilitated by the State to meet international standards. A measure that requires a reorientation of the thousands of patients who were regularly treated there. Consumer associations fear strong consequences for patients. The authorities, on the other hand, reassure and announce that they have mastered the process.
With our correspondent in Dakar, Birahim Toure
This is the concern among patients and their loved ones. 24 hours before the closure of the Aristide-Le-Dantec hospital, located in downtown Dakar, the National Union of Consumers of Senegal does not hide its fears. Jean-Pierre Dieng is the honorary president of this association and a member of the hospital’s board of directors:
” There has never been any deliberation on offshoring and its process, which is a very serious danger for patients. The relocation leads to the closure of certain treatment centers, and the postponement of appointments for evaluations and follow-up of patients. »
Nothing to panic, reassure the authorities. The director of public health establishments, on which this hospital depends, wants to be clear: all measures are taken for a good move and good patient care. ” We have set up a call center which has proven itself during the Covid and which (…) will be responsible for regulating all patients. (…) Beyond the Samu, certain specialists in transport and regulation will support us for patients whose vital prognosis is engaged “, explains Doctor Ousmane Dia.
In addition to patients, all hospital services and nursing staff will be redeployed to some twenty health structures already identified.