A College Applicant in Turkmenabat Suffers Heatstroke While Waiting for a Required Medical Certificate

A College Applicant in Turkmenabat Suffers Heatstroke While Waiting for a Required Medical Certificate Hundreds of prospective university students in Turkmenabat were reportedly forced to wait for hours to obtain the mandatory medical certificates required for admission to higher education institutions. According to Chronicles of Turkmenistan, a shortage of medical staff resulted in extremely slow-moving queues, leaving young people standing for long periods under the scorching summer sun. The report states that from 13 to 17 July, medical examinations were conducted only at Polyclinics No. 1 and No. 5 in the city. On 15 July, one female applicant suffered heatstroke after waiting outside for an extended period and was taken to hospital by an ambulance. The publication also alleges that applicants could obtain a medical certificate without waiting in line—and even without undergoing the required medical examination—by paying a bribe starting from 200 manats. These allegations raise renewed concerns about corruption and unequal access to public healthcare services. Although this year examinations were conducted at two clinics instead of one, local residents say that the problems of long queues and staff shortages remain unresolved. Source: Chronicles of Turkmenistan https://www.hronikatm.com/2026/07/in-turkmenabad-a-college-applicant-suffered-heatstroke-while-waiting-for-a-medical-certificate-required-for-enrollment/