Doctors and patients in Tashkent have voiced strong opposition to a government decision to close the city’s oncology hospital and merge it with the Republican Specialized Oncology and Radiology Center. The move, approved by Health Minister Asilbek Khudayarov, has triggered renewed concerns that the hospital’s valuable land could be repurposed for commercial development.
The issue recalls a major public outcry three years ago, when three major oncology hospital buildings in the capital were put up for auction. The sale was suspended at the time, and many assumed the plan had been abandoned. Today’s developments, however, suggest the matter has resurfaced.
Doctors warn of job losses and reduced access for cancer patients
Hospital staff and patients released a video appeal to the president, requesting protection and urging authorities to reconsider the decision.
“Cancer patients stay under our supervision from the day their diagnosis is confirmed and undergo years of treatment,” said chief nurse Gulnora Sodiqova. “At our facility, patients receive essential diagnostics free of charge – ECG, ultrasound, specialist consultations. In the new hospital these services will be paid.”
According to Sodiqova, the facility currently treats around 500 inpatients and provides services to more than 10,000 patients annually. Staff fear that relocation will leave 60% of employees jobless.
Concerns over green space and patient well-being
The hospital sits on nearly eight hectares of green space – one of the few remaining large, tree-filled areas providing clean air to the city center. Staff argue that the greenery is essential for patients recovering from chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
“This is just another business plan for someone,” said a senior nurse with 20 years of experience. “Our patients’ families visit 2–3 times a day. Moving the hospital will create serious difficulties.”
Another long-serving doctor highlighted that the new seven-storey building lacks green surroundings: “In summer, patients will suffer in the heat. Here they can walk outside under the trees. There is not a single tree around the new site.”
