Recently, information about a doctor from one of the capital's medical institutions appeared online. It concerned photos against the backdrop of graves, apparently taken for entertainment purposes. It was also reported that the same doctor caused a traffic accident while intoxicated. Such behavior by a doctor raises questions about the ethical and moral boundaries of acceptable conduct for physicians outside of working hours. UNN attempted to investigate this matter.
Context
The medic in question turned out to be Volodymyr Bilyi, an obstetrician-gynecologist working at the capital's Perinatal Center. Information about him was released by Maria Barabash, leader of the "Sprotyv" (Resistance) public movement. According to her, in 2016, Bilyi drove a car while drunk and caused an accident. After being stopped, he attempted to get back behind the wheel and flee the scene in the presence of law enforcement officers. Ultimately, for these actions, the doctor received a minimal fine. The activist suggests that such a symbolic punishment is linked to Bilyi's family connections – his mother headed the Perinatal Center for a long time, and his grandfather held a high-ranking position in law enforcement.
Another circumstance Barabash drew attention to is the photos Bilyi publishes on his social media – pictures taken at a cemetery. What meaning they carry is unknown to us, but the doctor looks very cheerful in them.
What the Physician's Code of Ethics and legal practice say
In medicine, trust is not a psychological superstructure but a clinical tool. Any patient is vulnerable. Especially when it comes to a woman expecting a child or in labor – she entrusts the doctors not only with herself but also with the life and health of her child.
A physician, through their professionalism, moral and ethical convictions, behavior in any life situations, attitude towards people, and the performance of professional duties, must be a worthy example for their colleagues and other members of society
The key phrase here is likely "in any life situations" – meaning that adherence to moral and ethical standards extends beyond working hours.
Medical lawyer Dmytro Kasianenko believes that disrespectful photos at a cemetery are a signal to investigate the circumstances.
When a person works as a doctor, especially an obstetrician, they are expected to have not only professional knowledge but also basic respect for human dignity. Disrespectful photos at a cemetery are a signal that it is necessary to seriously clarify exactly what happened, where the photos were taken, whether there were actions regarding the graves, whether alcohol was involved, who was present, whether there are signs of desecration, and whether they are now trying to present it as a joke
According to the lawyer, the institution where the doctor works must conduct a fact-check.
A check is needed, an explanation from the doctor, an assessment of the evidence, and a specific decision. Because trust in a doctor rests not only on a diploma but also on the ability to behave humanely
Regarding punishment that goes beyond moral condemnation or a disciplinary decision, cynical photos at a cemetery can be classified as petty hooliganism, in which case the punishment would be a fine, community service, or administrative arrest. If actions were committed that can be assessed as desecration of graves, then the punishment may not be limited solely to a fine; the court could issue a ruling on restriction or deprivation of liberty.