The Ministry of Health has denied information about cruel treatment of patients at the republican psychiatric hospital in Aktas village, Almaty region. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Sputnik Kazakhstan.
According to the ministry, social media had spread claims that in the hospital, which is a specialized type with intensive observation, measures of physical restraint were used, medications were used as a means of influence, and other actions demeaning the dignity of patients were committed. However, the official inspection did not confirm this information.
Inspection Details
Following the social media publication about alleged violations of patients' rights, the Department of the Committee for Medical and Pharmaceutical Control of the Ministry of Health for Almaty region conducted an inspection of the medical facility. The inspection examined compliance with legal requirements in the provision of medical care, the quality of medical and social assistance in mental health, and the provision of patients with medicines.
The author of the publication refers to personal memories. According to the author, the events occurred in 2008 in departments 7, 10, and 12 of the medical organization. However, the author's personal data were not provided, and the described events date back about 18 years, the ministry said.
Ministry's Position
The Ministry of Health emphasizes that upholding the rights, dignity, and safety of every patient is an absolute priority. Diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders are carried out in accordance with the legislation of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the requirements of the order of the Minister of Health of the Republic of Kazakhstan dated November 30, 2020.
The ministry continues to monitor the quality of medical care and the observance of patients' rights.