Modena citizens protest proposed hospital reorganization

Approximately 200 people marched through the center of Modena on Sunday, October 18, to protest the planned reorganization of the Policlinico hospital. The demonstration, organized by the committee ‘Modena merita di più’, follows Mayor Massimo Mezzetti’s announcement of a new €550 million hospital hub in Baggiovara.

The proposed plan aims to concentrate high-complexity care at the new Baggiovara facility over the next ten to twelve years. This would transition the current Policlinico into a center primarily for low and medium-intensity care, though it would retain its maternity area and emergency room.

Protesters expressed significant concerns regarding the accessibility of healthcare for vulnerable populations, including the disabled and pregnant women, who may struggle to reach the outskirts of the city. Committee representative Mattia Meschieri warned that the shift could effectively reduce the Policlinico to a ‘second-tier’ emergency service. Additionally, labor unions, including Fials Modena, criticized the lack of consultation with workers and local administrators regarding the reorganization project.