Dr. Do Manh Hung, Deputy Head of the Spine Surgery Department and Director of General Planning at Viet Duc Hospital, reported that in the first two weeks of this year, the number of severe cases and fatalities from traffic accidents (TNTG) has significantly decreased. This coincides with the implementation of Decree 168/2024/ND-CP.
A doctor examines a patient transferred to the hospital on January 23rd (Photo: Hong Hai).
Number of Hospital Admissions Remains Stable but Severity Decreases
According to statistics from Viet Duc Hospital, the number of patients admitted due to traffic accidents in the first two weeks of 2024 was 738, compared to 756 in the same period last year. Although the number of admissions did not change much, the percentage of patients requiring emergency surgery has dropped significantly.
Specifically, in the first two weeks of 2024, all patients admitted required emergency surgery. In contrast, during the same period this year, only 458 out of 756 patients needed surgery. This indicates that the number of severe cases requiring urgent medical intervention has nearly halved.
Dr. Hung noted: “The number of severe cases and fatalities has decreased compared to the same period last year. This is a positive result, reflecting a change in public awareness regarding traffic laws.”
Reduced Blood Alcohol Concentration Due to Strict Enforcement
One key factor contributing to the decrease in severe traffic accidents is the control of blood alcohol concentration. Previously, up to 50% of traffic accident patients had alcohol in their bloodstream. However, since the enforcement of Decree 100, this figure has dropped to 12.83%.
The number of severe traffic accidents requiring surgery has dropped sharply compared to the same period in 2024 (Photo: Hong Hai).
Dr. Hung explained: “Drivers with alcohol in their system often lose control, leading to severe accidents. Previously, many cases arrived at the hospital unconscious, making diagnosis and treatment difficult.”
Currently, traffic accidents related to alcohol consumption are very rare, especially at lower-tier hospitals. This has greatly improved the initial medical response.
High-Risk Periods for Traffic Accidents During Tet
The Tet holiday period is always sensitive in terms of traffic safety. According to Dr. Hung, New Year’s Eve and the days when people travel back to their hometowns or return to cities after the holiday are high-risk periods for accidents.
“Every year, around 4-5 AM on New Year’s Day, the number of accidents starts to increase. Many critical cases are transferred to Viet Duc Hospital from lower-tier hospitals,” Dr. Hung shared.
A case of traffic accident was transferred from Thanh Hoa to Viet Duc Hospital on January 23rd (Photo: Hong Hai).
To minimize the risk of accidents, Dr. Hung advises people to follow traffic laws, maintain safe distances, avoid driving when tired or under the influence of alcohol. Before long trips, it is essential to get enough sleep and ensure good health.
Preparedness During Tet
To ensure timely emergency care, Viet Duc Hospital has implemented a Tet duty plan with full specialty teams available 24/7. In addition to the main duty teams, the hospital also organizes backup teams to respond to potential overload or disasters.
“The backup teams are ready to be at the hospital within 15-30 minutes after receiving a call. We also maintain a remote consultation system to support lower-tier hospitals,” Dr. Hung emphasized.
Conclusion
The significant reduction in severe cases and fatalities from traffic accidents at Viet Duc Hospital is a positive signal, reflecting a change in public awareness regarding traffic laws. To continue this trend, each individual must take responsibility when participating in traffic, especially during Tet. Drive safely and comply with the law to protect yourself and your community.
Readers can find more detailed information through reputable sources or contact Viet Duc Hospital directly.
