In the service of citizens' (health)...

By: A. Vrabac

When on August 6, the Prime Minister of Sarajevo Canton Mario Nenadić ordered the president and all members of the Crisis Staff of the Ministry of Health of Sarajevo Canton, employees of the Ministry of Health of Sarajevo Canton, as well as directors and all members of the management bodies of public health institutions in Sarajevo Canton to suspend the use of annual leave, both commenced and planned, indefinitely, that move was met with public support. 

That was a time when Prime Minister Nenadić was also acting as Minister of Health and an arbitrator between two hospitals (KCUS and General Hospital) regarding isolation facilities, as well as numerous other issues that had accumulated during the coronavirus pandemic. Nenadić also coordinated all other activities, but felt it was his obligation to make the unpopular decision to interrupt and suspend the use of annual leave so that everyone would be available to the Ministry of Health, which coordinates and supervises the implementation of the current fight against the spread of the coronavirus infection. 

The very next day, Nenadić was hospitalized after feeling unwell during the workday. Messages of support poured in for the prime minister from all sides, especially from citizens who recognized his effort and dedication to providing everything necessary for patients during the pandemic. Although it was expected that he would give up and preserve his health, Nenadić returned to his work duties after a few days. He is still the prime minister, the minister of health, and the arbitrator, but most importantly, he is in the service of the citizens.  

And while the appointment of the Minister of Health is expected, which is still questionable, at the same time, there are fewer and fewer people working in the Ministry of Health. As confirmed to Patria, several employees have simultaneously taken sick leave, including the Ministry's secretary, who is also a member of the KS Crisis Staff. We wish these employees a speedy recovery, and everyone else good health. 

After returning from her annual leave, the president of the Crisis Staff of the Ministry of Health of KS and the director of the Institute of Public Health of KS, Aida Pilav, continued with her regular activities, but she cannot and should not have the role of Minister of Health. 

The good news is that the number of active cases is decreasing in Sarajevo Canton and the number of recovered patients is increasing, but the epidemiological situation is far from good. And a new school year is approaching.