Turkey Fines Over 100 Doctors Over High C-Section Rates

VoM News International Desk | July 13, 2026 | 12:29 PM IST | Breaking News | Follow on Google News

Turkey Fines Over 100 Doctors Over High C-Section Rates

ANKARA, JULY 13, 2026 [VoM News]: In a significant move, Turkey’s Health Ministry has imposed fines on more than 100 obstetrician-gynaecologists and temporarily suspended them from duty.

The action was reportedly taken against the doctors for performing high numbers of cesarean deliveries, according to the South China Morning Post.

Reports say the doctors have also been directed to undergo additional training.

The Turkish government imposed a blanket ban on elective C-sections at private hospitals without medical necessity, which came into effect in April 2025. Following this policy, the action has now been taken.

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To encourage higher birth rates and promote natural childbirth, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan launched the “Decade of the Family” initiative.

Among the 38 OECD member countries, Turkey records the highest cesarean delivery rate. About 61.5 per cent of live births in the country are through C-sections, raising concerns within the healthcare system and highlighting the need for stronger monitoring and accountability.

Meanwhile, medical associations have criticised the disciplinary measures, saying they fail to address deeper problems within the healthcare system.

The Antalya Chamber of Physicians confirmed that the affected doctors received warnings, faced disciplinary investigations, were suspended from clinical practice, and were ordered to attend antenatal training programmes.

VoM News International Desk