The world is a much smaller place than it used to be thanks to instant communication via the Internet. Yet, as individuals living and working in different countries we tend to focus on our own problems where we work and live. We don’t do this in a vacuum but within the context of our individual cultures. Each culture has the same basic needs, but our thought process and how we meet those needs are different.
Often I am asked what is the Ukrainian medical system like, how does it function, how is it similar and different than our system. Recently there have been two articles published that accurately describe the Ukrainian medical system from what I have experienced after living in Ukraine for seven years. The links to the two articles are Ukraine’s Hybrid Healthcare System, http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/7484095.stm, and Healthcare Deteriorating, Physician Shortage likely to grow, http://alisterandsarah.blogspot.com/2008/06/more-on-medical-situation.html.
Therefore, as an Americian living in Ukraine, I tend to look at the Ukrainian medical system through a different set of cultural glasses. Native people often accept their culture and traditions as correct giving little thought to how the same task is accomplished in another country. But once exposed to a different culture, the question becomes which perspective is correct, maybe both are invalid. It is here that a belief in a God who is sovereign and the author of absolute truth is a blessing. Either God is the God of all cultures or He is not God. May we all look to God who knows all and His wisdom to answer how we should provide the best medical care drawing from all cultures he created.
On first review of those articles the two tiered system described is ripe for corruption. It is curious that even in a state hospital the described neurosurgical patient will be responsible for expenses equivalent to 3-4 years of a physician’s salary paid by the government.
You are indeed correct in stating that God is the God of all cultures and peoples. It is important for Americans to be mindful of this, especially as we celebrate Independence Day. Like health, we often are guilty of worshipping liberty and freedom. As disciples of Christ we need to worship the Giver of liberty, the Source of all healing, the one and true God. We are only truly free and wholy healed by the work of Christ at the cross.
Wayne: I initially thought your comment about the cost of the operation was in error, but upon rereading the article you are correct. I was also surprised that the article hinted that such payments were legal. I have been told it is estimated that 80% of the Ukrainian economy is black market. This is not surprising. But how many in Ukraine can actually afford this operation and would they really do it for a box of chocolates as a thank you?