The World Health Organization recently debunked a study by
Amnesty International that attacked the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea’s
health care system. Amnesty’s report, published July 15, tells a devastating
story of famine, inequality, and inadequate medical care exacerbated by
government policies.
The problem with the report, according to the WHO, is that
it is completely unscientific, based on anecdotal reports from a small group of
people, none of whom are currently living in North Korea.
Amnesty’s report alleged that North Koreans are subject to
“unofficial payments” and barters for health services. WHO spokesperson Paul
Garwood said that such practices have never been uncovered. He affirmed that
“people in the country do not have to worry about a lack of financial resources
to access care.”
In April, WHO Director-General Margaret Chan said that
health care in the country was the “envy” of the developing world, a testament to
what can be accomplished with socialized management.
