CASOLI – The Regional Administrative Court for Abruzzo, partially accepting the appeal presented by the Municipality of Casoli, issued an order requiring the Lanciano-Vasto-Chieti Local Health Authority to ensure the presence of a doctor within the Territorial Assistance Unit (PTA) of Casoli during the night hours. This presence has been established as independent and distinct from the services already offered by 118 and the emergency medical service.
The mayor of Casoli made this known in a note, Massimo Tiberiniwho explains: “The decision arises from the need to protect the local community, which includes a significant percentage of fragile subjects and is often found in areas that are not easily reachable”.
“Although the TAR did not order the reopening of the First Intervention Point (PPI) at night, it nevertheless recognized the fundamental principle that a facility such as that of Casoli cannot be deprived of the presence of a doctor, a need reiterated in our appeal ”, adds the mayor.
“The ordinance represents an important step to guarantee citizens’ right to health and strengthens our position: the Casoli PTA must continue to offer adequate medical assistance even at night”, concludes Tiberini.
The hearing for the discussion on the merits of the appeal has been set for 7 March 2025.
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How does the presence of a medical facility during night hours influence community health outcomes in small towns?
Thank you for agreeing to this interview, my first question is for Dr. Roberto Savelli, a practicing physician in Abruzzo. Dr. Savelli, can you tell us about your perspective on providing medical assistance in remote and hard-to-reach areas, and how the presence of a doctor in Casoli’s PTA during night hours will benefit the community?
Dr. Savelli: Thank you for having me. Providing medical assistance in remote and hard-to-reach areas is crucial, especially during night hours. The presence of a doctor at Casoli’s PTA will not only ensure that citizens have access to immediate medical attention but also give them peace of mind knowing that they are being cared for by a qualified professional. Not all medical situations require a hospital visit, and having a doctor on site can often lead to quicker diagnosis and treatment, which could potentially save lives. Additionally, it will also reduce the burden on emergency services by handling minor medical issues, allowing them to focus on more critical cases.
My next question is for Massimo Tiberini, mayor of Casoli. Mayor, you have been critical of the closure of the First Intervention Point (PPI) in Casoli and its impact on the community. Can you elaborate on the specific needs of the citizens of Casoli and how the lack of a local medical facility is affecting them?
Mayor Tiberini: Thank you for your question. The citizens of Casoli are primarily elderly, and they often have more complex medical issues that require constant monitoring. Unfortunately, due to the closure of the PPI, they are forced to travel long distances to receive medical attention, which can be challenging, especially during night hours. The lack of a local medical facility means that they have to endure longer wait times, which can exacerbate their conditions. Furthermore, not all citizens have access to private transportation, making it even more challenging for them to reach medical facilities outside of Casoli.
My final question is for both of you. What do you believe is the next step for the Casoli PTA and the local health authority to ensure that the community’s healthcare needs are met?
Dr. Savelli: It’s essential that the local health authority continues to invest in and support the PTA by providing adequate staffing and resources. It’s also crucial that they work closely with the community
