Crans-Montana fire victims return to Switzerland for rehabilitation
A few weeks after the devastating fire in Crans-Montana, the first injured patients have returned to Switzerland for rehabilitation. They were initially treated in specialized centers abroad and are now, due to their improved health, starting the rehabilitation process in Switzerland.
Currently, 36 people living in Switzerland continue to receive medical treatment abroad: 16 of them are in France, 12 in Italy, five in Germany and three in Belgium. Some of the injured are still in critical condition.
Capacity expansion
In Switzerland, 31 injured people are receiving hospital treatment: 22 in acute care hospitals and 9 in rehabilitation clinics. In parallel with the return of patients from abroad, the transfer of patients from acute care hospitals to rehabilitation centers is also being planned.
The Suva clinics in Bellikon (AG) and Sion (VS), which specialize in treating burns, are being expanded to create the necessary capacity. According to the Federal Authority for Civil Protection (BABS), all those affected with Swiss citizenship or who live in Switzerland will be able to be treated in Swiss clinics. Psychosocial support is also an important part of the treatment.
Rehabilitation coordination
The coordination of this complex process is clearly divided: The Conference of the Directors of Health of the cantons strategically plans the rehabilitation capacities, while a specialized Medical Board coordinates the operational transfer of patients to Switzerland. This board ensures contact with European burn centers and organizes transport and admission to Swiss centers./Albinfo.ch
