Russia faces worst medical staff crisis in 60 years
Photo: Russia faces its deepest medical staff crisis in over 60 years (Getty Images)
Russia is facing its deepest medical staffing crisis in over 60 years, according to the Telegram of Ukraine's Center for Countering Disinformation (CPD) under the National Security and Defense Council.
Official data show that the number of mid-level medical personnel in Russia has fallen to its lowest since 1960—just 96.3 medical workers per 10,000 people. Experts say even this figure is likely overstated.
The reasons are clear: the profession has lost appeal due to low salaries, while the militarized state prioritizes war and security over healthcare, funding it on a residual basis.
On temporarily occupied Ukrainian territories, the crisis is even deeper. Since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion, many local medical workers have fled, and Russians are unwilling to work in high-risk areas for minimal pay.
For residents of occupied areas, this means not only immediate healthcare shortages but long-term consequences: worsening chronic conditions, neglected illnesses, and higher mortality rates.
"For years, the Kremlin has systematically sacrificed human capital to wage war and maintain power. The collapse of medical staffing is a direct result of this political choice," the CPD noted.
Staffing shortages across Russia
Earlier reports highlighted that Russia's full-scale war against Ukraine has intensified labor shortages in civilian sectors.
The construction industry is among the hardest hit and could face a severe workforce shortage in the coming years.
The crisis stems from the mass conscription of men and the redirection of labor resources to support the defense industry.
