Kanybek Dosmambetov, head of the Ministry of Health, has dismissed the leaders of the National Center for Cardiology and Therapy (NCCT) and the Research Institute of Heart Surgery and Organ Transplantation (RIHSOT) due to identified violations in their work. This decision was made based on the results of a meeting where the outcomes of an on-site inspection were announced, according to the ministry's press service.
During the inspection, it was revealed that the NCCT had committed serious violations in providing emergency care to patients with acute coronary syndrome. It was noted that angiographs were not used, and coronary angiography was performed with delays. Additionally, echocardiographic studies were not conducted around the clock in the intensive care unit. The minister questioned the feasibility of purchasing thrombolytics worth 28 million soms, pointing out the necessity of having an angiograph and a round-the-clock team for performing PCI as a basic method.
Issues regarding potential corruption risks and the accountability of NCCT director Talantbek Sooronbaev were also discussed, including his frequent trips abroad and the origin of his assets.
At the RIHSOT, problems were identified with the use of equipment and consumables. The cardiothoracic surgery equipment was in unsatisfactory condition after a fire, and the president's directive to equip the intensive care unit with ultrasound and echo machines had not been fulfilled. The minister also noted an increase in the number of patients who sought help from private clinics after surgeries performed by the institute's director, Samidin Shabyraliev.
The meeting addressed the overall issue of insufficient interaction between the two institutions. Patients with acute coronary syndrome received assistance with delays, despite the fact that angiographs were idle. The minister emphasized that the existing situation is economically unfeasible, especially in light of the duplication of cardiothoracic surgery at the NCCT.
He noted that the idleness of equipment, the lack of clinical protocols, and untimely diagnostics directly affect mortality rates, stressing that this is a matter not only of technology but also of attitude towards work.
As a result of the meeting, the ministry instructed the prompt re-equipping of the RIHSOT, as well as ensuring round-the-clock echocardiography and the operation of angiographs at the NCCT in accordance with established protocols. The leaders of both institutions decided to voluntarily resign from their positions. In their absence, the candidacies of young but experienced specialists, including those with foreign experience, will be considered.
The ministry will continue its efforts to reduce mortality from cardiovascular diseases and improve the efficiency of cardiology services.
