Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya: “Coronavirus is on the rise again in Belarus. COVID now has a much milder course in most cases but even in this situation, the regime yet again failed to organize healthcare effectively. For example, people with cardiovascular diseases are often sent to hospitals that do not specialize in their conditions, where they simply cannot receive the specialized treatment they need.
People’s health is the last thing that concerns the regime. We remember how the authorities ended the mask mandate at the height of the pandemic. We remember the dismissals of doctors who recorded the injuries people received in detention. We remember the arrest of Artsiom Sarokin, who published the medical report of the murdered Raman Bandarenka. We remember how the regime treated doctor Uladzimir Martau, who told people the truth about the coronavirus in Belarus.
Being a doctor in our country is hard. Doctors put up with meager salaries and work double shifts to support their families. The shortage of staff leads to long shifts and increased workloads. The time allocated for patient appointments is barely enough for a proper examination. Medical students critically lack practical training and have to learn the complexities of the job under pressure of time while already working as doctors. Young professionals receive neither support nor encouragement.
People cannot handle the stress and pressure and leave. The authorities keep extending mandatory job placement periods for graduates to keep doctors in state clinics. But prospective students see how the regime treats this profession and give up their dreams of becoming doctors. The National Statistical Committee can publish as much data as it wants, claiming that the number of medical professionals in the country is growing and the situation is improving. But we all know the real situation.
When I hear about the challenges doctors face, I am in awe of their dedication and patience. Healthcare in Belarus relies on strong, committed people, not on state support. Talented specialists work entire shifts without a lunch break, sacrificing sleep and rest to help others.
Dear doctors, your work is of extraordinary importance. We know how much you do for each of us, and we value your professional wisdom and human care. Thank you for doing such important work”.
