Health Ministry reacts after CNA raids at Florești District Hospital
The Ministry of Health strongly condemns any form of corruption within medical institutions and promises full cooperation with law enforcement agencies in investigating the illegal issuance of medical certificates at Florești District Hospital.
"We condemn these actions and will work together to ensure that such unacceptable elements do not recur and are eliminated from the healthcare system," declared Health Minister Emil Ceban during a government meeting on May 13.
The Minister expressed surprise at the accusations made by law enforcement, given that he had recently visited the medical institution and was impressed by its operations. "I saw a well-arranged and well-organized hospital. I was, of course, disappointed by what I read in the press," said Emil Ceban.
The individuals under investigation by the National Anticorruption Center (CNA) primarily worked within the advisory center responsible for issuing medical certificates for drivers.
Recently, anti-corruption officers uncovered a scheme at Florești District Hospital that involved the illegal issuance of medical certificates. Investigators allege that patients could obtain sick leave, as well as driving and firearms permits, without completing the required examinations.
The case includes the head of the Consultative Department and a senior nurse from that department, both of whom are suspected of accepting bribes. Investigators believe that the scheme also involved accountants and several specialist doctors.
The management of Florești District Hospital condemned these actions, emphasizing their zero tolerance for corruption.
Currently, the medical employees implicated in the investigation are being reviewed while remaining at liberty, but their situation may escalate. The National Anti-Corruption Commission has announced that, in addition to the primary case, 11 other separate criminal cases have been opened for similar offences.
Last year, Florești District Hospital was linked to 46 corruption cases investigated by CNA officers.
