Many hospitals in the quake zone have collapsed, and transferring survivors elsewhere takes precious time. So the most practical way to provide prompt medical aid is in the temporary "tent hospitals." As our reporter Han Bin tells us, there are several such hospitals in Wenchuan, and doctors there are working hard to save lives.
Almost two weeks after the quake, the patients keep coming.
Another busy day for the doctors. Almost two weeks after the quake, the patients keep coming. Five-year-old Zhang Xiaocong lost both of his parents. He's been brought to the temporary ward in the school courtyard.
Jiang Lin, Deputy Director of Wenchuan People's Hospital, said, "What we need most are electric generators, and operating facilities and medical devices for bone injured. We also need medical supplies and antibiotics."
Yu Yonggui suffered a severe eye injury. He has brought to this hospital a week ago. He told us he was sleeping when the quake stuck. He barely escaped. He says he was lucky to survive, but both of his legs were also injured.
Yu Yonggui, Villager of Mianchi, Wenchuan County, said, "Without the doctor's help, I can't imagine whether my eye can be saved."
His surgeon, Zhao Minhong, says Yu's condition is stable now, but follow-up treatment is needed if he's to see again.
Little Yuhan is primary school student. His mother says he only has a bone injury, but leg wounds are also affecting him. He needs to stay in hospital for a short period of time.Some of the serious cases have their operations inside the tent.
Doctor Zhao Jianhua, Daping Hospital of Chongqing, said, "This patient injured his spine. He's just arrived today, and the operation can't wait."
Medicines are coming from stockpiles of various hospitals.
Yu Caofu's daughter has a fever. More and more patients like little Xiaoyu are coming down with common illnesses, like flu and stomachache.
Yu Caofu, Farmer of Wenchuan County, said, "At the most difficult time, the government has set up medical tents in this area to hep us. We are so grateful for their service in solving our most practical and urgent problems."
Han Bin, said, "These survivors are taking good care of in this hospital, it won't be long before they recover from their physical injuries. But it may take much longer for them to heal psychologically. Han Bin and Zhong Rui."
(CCTV May 26, 2008)