Health Ministry Suggests Doctors Secretly Record Controversial Patients Using a Recording Device
Protecting Medical Professionals in Kazakhstan
In 2022, the Kazakhstani Ministry of Health registered 23 administrative offenses against medical and pharmaceutical workers for hindering their lawful activities. The court subsequently handled 19 of these cases, resulting in fines totaling 909,711 tenge for 16 individuals, and six administrative arrests.
The Ministry of Health highlighted frequent complaints from Kazakhstani patients, such as poor treatment and examination, refusal of hospitalization, and violation of ethics and deontology, as potential triggers for inappropriate behavior in medical facilities and disparaging remarks towards doctors.
Medical professionals argue that patients often overlook basic communication etiquette and respectful treatment, adhering to the principle "the patient is always right." Aynur Sarsekbaeva, a doctor at a state polyclinic, explained that although filing lawsuits against patients is not common, there are situations where patients demand immediate attention despite the doctor's full schedule, leading to unjustified responses.
The Ministry of Health explains that medical workers can seek protection from offensive behavior through Article 131 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan, which addresses insults that humiliate another person's honor and dignity. Regardless, healthcare professionals have access to other strategies to safeguard themselves:
- Training in de-escalation and violence mitigation: Healthcare facilities can offer training programs to equip staff with the skills to handle potentially aggressive situations more effectively.
- Environmental and infrastructure innovations: Improved communication systems, security monitoring, and educational messaging can help reduce violence in healthcare settings.
- Workplace culture and support: A supportive work environment can help healthcare staff manage stress and improve overall well-being.
- Legal protections: Medical workers should be aware of relevant Kazakhstani laws regarding workplace violence and patient rights.
Promoting occupational safety and health is crucial for protecting medical workers from offensive behavior, as emphasized by international organizations like the ILO. Kazakhstan's ongoing healthcare reforms aim to improve primary healthcare services, potentially encompassing measures to enhance patient safety and professional well-being.
- To combat offensive behavior towards medical professionals, a focus on training in de-escalation and violence mitigation at healthcare facilities can empower staff to manage potential aggressions more effectively.
- Enhancing the communication systems, security monitoring, and educational messaging within healthcare settings is essential to promote a safer environment and reduce instances of violence.
- Prioritizing a supportive work culture and well-being for healthcare staff not only helps manage stress but also contributes to overall mental health, which is critical in the face of potentially challenging interactions with patients.
