Violence Against Doctors and Medical Staff in Iran
The murder of Dr Masoud Davoodi, a cardiologist and professor at Yasuj University of Medical Sciences, by the brother of one of his former patients who had passed away, has triggered widespread reactions among the Iranian medical community. This incident has heightened safety concerns for medical staff regarding threats and physical assaults, leading to protests and strikes in Yasuj. The prosecutor of Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad confirmed the murder, stating that the perpetrator blamed Dr Davoodi for his brother’s death, alleging medical malpractice. This tragedy underscores the lack of safety measures and the failure to address threats against doctors seriously. Many physicians closed their clinics in solidarity and participated in large numbers at Dr Davoodi’s funeral.
Widespread criticism has been directed at the security authorities for their inaction and indifference to the repeated threats faced by medical professionals. Numerous social activists and medical practitioners have condemned state policies that foster anti-medical sentiments and professional insecurity. They have expressed concern over the lack of legal mechanisms to protect medical staff.
The murder of this cardiologist in Yasuj has shocked the Iranian medical community, highlighting once again the dangers and challenges faced by healthcare professionals. Doctors and nurses in hospitals are not only burdened by high stress and workloads but are also sometimes subjected to verbal and physical abuse.
This incident has further amplified concerns within the medical community and renewed demands for improved security in medical facilities. Physicians and health activists emphasize the urgent need for preventive measures, enhanced security protocols in hospitals, and the implementation of laws to combat violence against medical personnel.
The medical community and the family of the deceased doctor are calling for a swift and fair investigation into the case and the administration of justice. This tragic incident underscores the urgent need to ensure the safety and protection of medical staff in Iran.
As human rights organizations, we deeply condemn this horrific incident and extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and the entire medical community in Iran. The death of this dedicated doctor is a wake-up call that reflects the deep-seated issues within the country’s healthcare system.
This brutal crime is a direct result of the structural deficiencies and chronic shortcomings of Iran’s healthcare system. We therefore call on all international medical organizations, universities, research centres, human rights organizations, courts, and civil society to loudly condemn this unprecedented violence and urge the Islamic Republic of Iran to present a comprehensive and practical plan to address the profound crisis in its healthcare system.
We firmly believe that ensuring the health and safety of medical personnel is a prerequisite for realizing the right to life and health for all citizens. We therefore urge all relevant authorities to take this legitimate concern seriously and implement concrete measures to improve the working conditions and livelihoods of medical professionals.
Vienna, 17.11.2024
Dr. Behrouz Bayat
Komitee zur Verteidigung der Menschenrechte im Iran, Österreich
Prof. Dr. Siroos Mirzaei
Medical Professionals for Human Rights in Iran – Austria