Editor,
Recently, during a visit to Nazareth hospital, myself being a patient I not only witnessed but also experienced something both troubling and disappointing. A glaring lack of basic empathy in one of the most critical aspects for care. The waiting area was packed, as is often the case, but what stood out was the number of visibly pregnant women standing, waiting for their turn, some for as long as 45 minutes without being offered a seat. These were not just early pregnancies; many of these women were heavily pregnant, some leaning against walls, holding their backs in discomfort, others clearly struggling with swelling in their legs and feet.
While hospital waiting areas are understandably crowded with patients from various departments of neurosurgery, orthopaedics, and more, it remains baffling that attendees accompanying these patients do not voluntarily offer their seats to heavily pregnant women. The weight of their condition, both literally and figuratively, seems invisible to those who choose convenience over compassion.
It is reasonable to acknowledge that attendees are present to support patients, and some may be dealing with their own fatigue or health concerns. However, the fundamental question lingers—is these waiting area seats meant for patients or for attendees? If space is truly limited, should there not be a system in place ensuring that those with greater need, such as pregnant women, have priority access?
What’s more disappointing is that nothing was done by the hospital administration to address the issue. There was no intervention by staff, no designated seating, no announcement requesting that those more able-bodied offer their seats to pregnant women. It felt as though the suffering of these women (including mine) was invisible both to the people around them and to the system meant to support them.
This is not just about a lack of chairs. It’s about a lack of awareness, accountability, and compassion. While we talk about maternal health and dignity in public forums and policy documents, the reality on the ground tells a very different story.
Name withheld on request
