Ukrainian Doctor Exposes Emergency Medical System Failures

Ukraine's Emergency Medical System Under Scrutiny: Doctor Highlights Critical Gaps June 9, 2025 - Concerns about the state of emergency medical services in Ukraine are growing after a video by Dr. bilik, an emergency medical doctor and family physician, went viral. The video details an incident where an ambulance crew administered pain relief to a patient with five herniated discs but left them to find their own way to the hospital. "They gave pain medication and told the person to get to the hospital themselves," Dr. bilik explains in the video, expressing his frustration with the situation. This incident highlights a broader problem, according to Dr. bilik, who suggests that the current system prioritizes only life-threatening emergencies, leaving patients with serious but non-life-threatening conditions to fend for themselves. The video has sparked intense debate among Ukrainians online, with many sharing their own experiences of inadequate emergency medical care. One commenter wrote, "My mother was taken to the hospital by ambulance in the middle of the night, so it's not always like that." However, many others echoed Dr. bilik's concerns, pointing to a shortage of resources and overworked medical personnel. The video underscores the need for a thorough review of Ukraine's emergency medical system, ensuring that patients receive appropriate care regardless of the severity of their condition. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing the healthcare system and the urgent need for reform and improved resource allocation.