The Public Prosecutor’s Office in North Macedonia is currently conducting an investigation into allegations of misconduct at the Oncology Clinic in Skopje. These allegations revolve around the theft and illegal sale of therapies meant for cancer patients.
The investigation was prompted by reports published in the Macedonian weekly “Fokus” in May. The magazine highlighted a critical shortage of immune therapy drugs known as cytostatics, which are vital for the treatment of cancer patients.
In response to these allegations, law enforcement authorities carried out searches at the clinic premises, seizing computers, computer records, and other materials for further examination.
According to the “Fokus” report, there were instances where clinic employees were caught stealing the much-needed and costly therapy. These stolen drugs were allegedly sold on the black market, following a scheme that allegedly involved several clinic employees.
The article also highlighted that the Oncology Clinic had incurred substantial debts in recent years, amounting to as much as 20 million euros. This debt was attributed to the distribution of therapy without proper planning or oversight.
According to data provided by the “Hema” association, an estimated 7,000 individuals are diagnosed with cancer annually between 2012 and 2021 in North Macedonia. Tragically, approximately half of these cancer patients do not survive.
The cost of therapy for cancer treatment can be as high as 6,000 euros per patient, depending on their medical condition. Typically, this cost is covered by the Health Insurance Fund.
Prime Minister Dimitar Kovačevski expressed his deep concern, characterizing the reports of therapy abuse as “horrifying”. He emphasized that those responsible for any wrongdoing in the Oncology scandal would be held accountable. He also urged caution against stigmatizing all medical staff based on the actions of a few.
The Chamber of Doctors has also expressed its worry regarding the therapy abuse allegations and has extended its support to authorities in their efforts to uncover the truth.
Opposition parties have criticized the government for its alleged involvement in the case and accused it of failing to fulfill its promise of providing “advanced healthcare for citizens”.
Social media platforms have been flooded with testimonies from citizens alleging mistreatment of their loved ones, claiming that such mistreatment has led to tragic outcomes.
Protests in front of the government building are scheduled for Monday, September 4, as public outrage over the alleged misconduct continues to mount.
