In the department, they emphasized that psychiatric institutions have a special access regime, where the main focus is on protecting the rights of patients, their dignity, and confidentiality.
As noted by the Ministry of Health, information about health status, treatment methods, and the mere presence in a psychiatric institution is considered medical confidentiality, and its dissemination is possible only with the written consent of the patient or their legal representative. Even if a person in the video is blurred, there is a risk of identification by voice, external characteristics, and the context of the filming.
Filming in medical institutions is only permitted with the consent of the administration and in compliance with the rights of patients and established rules. Journalistic activities do not exempt one from the need to adhere to legislative norms.
Representatives of the Ministry of Health also emphasized that for people with mental disorders, consent for filming must be voluntary, informed, and officially documented. Simple communication with a journalist does not serve as confirmation of such consent.
Occupational therapy may be used as part of the rehabilitation and social adaptation of patients; it is carried out on a voluntary basis and is not compulsory. According to the ministry, presenting such episodes in a sensational manner can distort the essence of the treatment process.
The Ministry called for responsible and correct coverage of mental health issues to avoid stigmatization and humiliation of the dignity of patients.
Currently, the department is examining this case, taking into account the rights of citizens. They emphasized that the openness of the healthcare system is important; however, it should not be achieved at the expense of violating the rights and confidentiality of citizens.
