Kazakhstan cracks down on flawed driver medical tests after public outcry

Health Minister Akmaral Alnazarova has called an urgent meeting to tackle irregularities in driver medical examinations. The focus is on narcological clinics accused of failing to follow proper testing procedures. Public complaints and official reports have triggered the investigation.

The minister’s meeting reviewed multiple concerns, including parliamentary questions and documented breaches in alcohol impairment tests. These issues suggest some clinics may not be adhering to required medical standards.

In response, Alnazarova ordered the Committee for Medical and Pharmaceutical Control to audit all regional narcological centres. The review will check whether current examination protocols are being followed correctly. The Health Ministry is overseeing the process closely. Any confirmed violations will be passed to law enforcement. Legal action will then proceed under existing regulations.

The audit will determine whether narcological centres comply with medical testing rules. Clinics found breaking procedures could face penalties. The ministry’s intervention aims to ensure driver examinations meet national standards.