For his first official visit as Prime Minister, Michel Barnier went to Necker Hospital in the 15th arrondissement of Paris on Saturday, September 7. He met with health professionals who are concerned about the lack of resources.
Published on 09/07/2024 18:48
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Emergency vehicle belonging to the SMUR of the Necker hospital in Paris (illustrative image) (G?RARD HOUIN / MAXPPP)
Necker Hospital as the setting for his first official trip as the new Prime Minister. Michel Barnier went on Saturday 8 September to meet with healthcare workers, particularly in the 15 control room where emergency calls arrive and from where the Samu trucks leave very quickly. The new head of government questioned everyone about schedules and rest periods. The healthcare staff told him about the difficulties they are encountering. “We need resources, but not just financial resources, we need human resources”explains psychiatrist Elise Neffe. “We have fewer and fewer psychiatrists, whether in hospitals or in private practice. Patients have a lot of trouble accessing care and it’s becoming complicated. Even if it’s been complicated for a while, it’s becoming more and more so,” she says.
“We don’t have enough staff, it’s poorly organized, it’s a mess, what’s going to change?” Nicolas, an emergency doctor, is indignant as he prepares his equipment. This is not his first time as head of government. “We don’t have enough human resources. We have nursing schools that are operating at 60-70% of their capacity and that doesn’t bother anyone.”explains the disillusioned caregiver who points the finger at Parcoursup, “unsuitable”.
“Medical students are bullied, they are hassled, we don’t do enough, the guys go to Romania to finish their studies!”
Nicolas, emergency doctor at Necker Hospital in Paris
During this trip, Michel Barnier promised to bring “personal attention to public health and those who are involved in it”. “We are not going to perform miracles”admits the new head of government, saying he wants to be “attentive” with his team at “this situation”. It was also said “very interested to see the different people, doctors or not, who are behind these reception and telephone posts. Calmness and professionalism are also useful qualities when you are Prime Minister”he added.
