Poverty in Diyarbakır hinders access to healthcare services
It is stated that with deepening poverty in Diyarbakır, healthcare services have become subject to fees and citizens are experiencing economic difficulties in hospitals.
Dr. Veysi Ülgen, President of the Diyarbakır Medical Chamber, stated that the increasing poverty in the city makes it difficult for citizens to access healthcare services, and that the public health approach has been undermined by demanding fees for many items, including emergency services.
Paid Period in Healthcare
Citizens with insufficient financial resources in Diyarbakır face increasing economic barriers while accessing healthcare services. Even in public hospitals, citizens have to pay out of pocket due to elements such as participation fees and price differences.
Fee Application in Emergency Services
Touching upon the green, yellow, and red zone system in emergency services, Dr. Veysi Ülgen stated that fees are charged in the green zone and payments are requested under various circumstances in the yellow zone as well. The red zone, on the other hand, only covers real and severe life-threatening emergencies.
Struggle and Access Problems
Emphasizing that healthcare services are a fundamental public right, professional organizations argue that this field must be free of charge and equal. However, patients who cannot find appointments are directed to private hospitals or university hospitals where additional fees are requested.
Risks Created by Poverty
The cost of a single healthcare application can exceed a minimum wage. It is stated that poverty, combined with malnutrition and poor living conditions, turns directly into a mechanism that produces new health problems.