Corruption in healthcare discussed at top level

One of the most resonant topics of recent time is corruption in healthcare. Loud detentions of dozens of functionaries of the Ministry of Health, who are suspected of taking bribes, could not be left without attention of the Head of State. The facts of corruption among officials should not cast a shadow on honest and decent doctors, who are the majority. This infection (as our President called corruption manifestations today) must be eliminated. But no one should be punished in vain. It is important to find the causes of systemic problems, which led to the initiation of 95 criminal cases. The most acute issues in healthcare today were discussed at a meeting with the President. Here, new personnel decisions were made.

Among the detainees in the so-called case of doctors there were high-ranking officials from deputy minister to the heads of Belpharmacy and medical technicians, as well as head physicians of several large hospitals. They repeatedly received illegal monetary rewards for rendering assistance in the supply of medical equipment and drugs at inflated prices, for loyalty in the choice of suppliers and firms serving equipment.

At the same time, the work of enterprises that are important for health care is not paralyzed. The President states that this is an example how to enforce the laws, while not harming the economy of the medical sphere and innocent workers.

The banal staff rotation is not an option. What is the root of the problems, why did such corruption manifestations become possible at all? It is necessary to understand. After all, it is clear that such a story is a big stain on the reputation of the entire medical community.

An effective remedy for corruption can be full transparency of purchases, auctions and tenders. Efforts will focus on improving legislation, selecting a pool of independent technical experts, reformatting the work of procurement commissions.