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| East Kalimantan evaluates its traffic accident referral system to prevent hospital overcrowding and improve emergency care during the Eid return travel surge. |
Samarinda – The Health Office of East Kalimantan is tightening its evaluation of the referral system for traffic accident victims, especially ahead of the peak Eid homecoming return flow, which is known for a surge in incidents.
Head of the East Kalimantan Health Office, Jaya Mualimin, emphasized the importance of rapid coordination between hospitals to prevent patient overcrowding at a single medical facility.
“If a hospital receives the first patient, it must immediately communicate with other hospitals so victims can be redirected to the nearest available facility,” he said in Samarinda on Saturday.
Referral System Evaluation to Anticipate Patient Surges
This evaluation is being conducted in collaboration with hospital management across the region. The goal is to maintain the quality of emergency services, especially during mass traffic accidents.
According to Jaya, overcrowding at a single hospital can significantly impact the effectiveness of medical treatment and reduce victims’ chances of survival.
“If emergency services are not optimal, it can trigger negative public perception. That’s what we want to avoid,” he explained.
Strong Coordination Between Hospitals Is Key
The East Kalimantan Health Office stressed that communication between healthcare facilities must be fast, accurate, and continuous.
Primary healthcare units are required to ensure capacity readiness before accepting a large influx of emergency patients. The system is designed to evenly distribute patients and ensure faster treatment.
This policy was also based on findings from a previous accident case at a regional public hospital in Samarinda, where minor miscommunication occurred.
“Although there was some coordination issue, all victims were successfully evacuated and treated,” Jaya noted.
Preparing for the Eid Return Flow
To anticipate the return travel period, the Health Office has ensured that all healthcare facilities—from clinics to emergency units—are on full alert.
This effort involves multiple agencies, including:
Regional Police of East Kalimantan
Transportation Agency
Toll road operators
Collaboration is reflected through the establishment of integrated health posts at accident-prone locations.
“All stakeholders are involved to ensure fast and coordinated responses in the field,” he added.
Main Focus: Safety and Rapid Response
With increased mobility during Eid, the risk of traffic accidents also rises. Therefore, an effective referral system plays a crucial role in saving lives.
The Health Office hopes this evaluation will minimize field constraints and ensure that every victim receives prompt and appropriate medical care.
FAQ
1. Why is the hospital referral system being evaluated?
To prevent overcrowding at a single hospital during mass accidents, which can delay treatment and increase fatality risks.
2. What is the main goal of this policy?
To ensure balanced patient distribution so medical services remain effective and responsive.
3. Which agencies are involved in this effort?
The Health Office, Police, Transportation Agency, and toll road operators.
4. When do traffic accident risks typically increase?
During Eid homecoming and return travel periods due to higher public mobility.
5. What happens if hospitals fail to coordinate?
It can lead to delayed treatment and reduced quality of emergency care.
