In the first two months of this year, VVC received five submissions regarding alleged language violations committed by medical practitioners. But for now, it is difficult to judge whether the number of submissions has increased or decreased, said Madara Rēķe, head of the VVC language control department.
Submissions have mostly been received regarding nurses in general care. The applicants have mainly indicated that it is not possible to receive a quality health care service due to the lack of proficiency in the official language of medical practitioners.
Last year four doctors and 40 nurses were administratively punished for not using the official language to the extent necessary for the performance of professional and official duties. A warning or fine between EUR 35 and EUR 700 shall be applied to an employee of a medical treatment institution for not using the official language well enough.
As previously reported, Health Minister Hosams Abu Meri (JV) has called for more attention to be paid to the use of the official language in hospitals.
