Turkish Medical Association files criminal complaint against AKP's Sarıçam

The Turkish Medical Association (TTB) announced that it has filed a criminal complaint against AKP's Sarıçam on the grounds that he targeted healthcare workers with the remarks, "If there is dissatisfaction, I would even provoke the citizens by saying, 'Go grab the healthcare personnel by the throat. I have done my part as the state. They are the ones not providing the service.'"

In the TTB's criminal complaint petition, it was stated that such rhetoric threatens the safety of healthcare workers who work selflessly to defend the public's right to health and paves the way for violence. The petition noted that it is particularly dangerous for such statements to be made by a public official who holds the title of Member of Parliament, is responsible for taking preventive measures, and engages in legislative activities, and included the following statements:

"The Turkish Medical Association maintains a firm stance against all forms of violence directed at healthcare workers. The safety of healthcare workers is a fundamental prerequisite not only for their own well-being but also for the protection of the health of the entire society. Healthcare workers being subjected to violence by the people they serve undermines trust in the healthcare system and leads to serious unrest in society. The proper delivery of healthcare services is only possible under safe and healthy working conditions. A safe and healthy working environment constitutes a prerequisite for the provision of healthcare services, the exercise of individuals' rights to access treatment, and, in other words, the protection of patient rights. Considering the public nature of healthcare services, it is also necessary to accept that influencing healthcare personnel through unlawful acts is an act committed against the public as well."