The Ministry of Health has released critical conclusions regarding the medical response to the severe events of October 7, 2023. The investigation, led by Prof. Nachman Ash, highlighted significant deficiencies in the evacuation and treatment of the injured during this crisis. Key findings indicate that there was a lack of overall situational awareness among medical forces, resulting in uncoordinated evacuations by civilian vehicles. This led to difficulties in managing the initial evacuation and directing casualties to hospitals.
One of the most pressing issues identified was the need for improved coordination and control over the evacuation processes, particularly in areas classified as closed military zones. The committee emphasized the importance of minimizing evacuation times to ensure that the wounded receive prompt medical attention. Despite the challenges faced, the preparedness of hospitals for emergency situations was noted, with Soroka and Barzilai hospitals quickly implementing multi-casualty incident procedures even before formal directives were issued.
Director General of the Ministry of Health, Moshe Bar Siman Tov, acknowledged the professionalism displayed by medical staff during the crisis and emphasized that the quality of care was not compromised. However, he called for a more robust system for secondary regulation, which involves the transfer of patients between hospitals, to enhance response capabilities in future emergencies. The report underscored the necessity for continuous training and preparedness drills to effectively manage extreme events with high casualty rates, indicating that the health system must adapt to evolving threats.
- The investigation revealed that approximately 70% of the evacuations were conducted by civilians and private entities, complicating the coordination efforts. Bar Siman Tov stressed the need for the Ministry of Health to develop better information systems and coordination mechanisms with the IDF to streamline evacuations from both military and civilian areas.
- The committee's findings also pointed to the importance of establishing a centralized command structure for all responders, including rescue units and private ambulances, to enhance operational efficiency. The response to the October 7 events serves as a critical learning opportunity for the health system, which must prioritize the preservation of capacity and readiness for future mass casualty incidents.
