National Hospital Directorate requests coordination after surge in infant care volunteers

The National Hospital Directorate (OKFŐ) has issued a request for coordination following a massive surge in volunteer interest regarding the care of infants and children left in hospitals. The surge was triggered by the ‘Érintők’ initiative, specifically its ‘Babasimogató’ (Baby Cuddling) program, which attracted over ten thousand applicants within a few hours.

OKFŐ stated that while they appreciate all offers of assistance for the physical and mental development of these children, the sudden influx has created a significant administrative burden for several medical institutions. The Directorate noted that neither they nor the affected hospitals were pre-notified about the August 19 initiative and learned of it through media reports.

To ensure aid is directed where it is most needed and to manage the workload, OKFŐ is requesting that civil organizations and volunteers coordinate with the Directorate and the specific healthcare institutions before launching such initiatives. They emphasized that prior consultation is essential for effective cooperation between hospitals, civil groups, and sector management.