Social Functions of a Rural Doctor (on the Example of Siberian Regions)

Abstract

The article analyses the social functions of a rural doctor. The study is based on the problem of consolidation of residents of Russian villages, necessary for the effective development of rural areas, solving everyday tasks. Against the background of pronounced socio-­economic problems of the village, alienation of people is observed, it makes it difficult to solve socially significant rural affairs and issues of local importance. There are active residents in the countryside who improve living conditions there. They are rural doctors and their role in a disordered rural life is noticeably increasing. The expansion of the social functions of a rural doctor makes it possible to overcome several complex problems and change the social climate in rural areas for the better. The author concludes that the purpose of a doctor in rural areas is not only to provide medical care, but also to establish long-term contacts with residents on the well-being of rural life. The rural doctor is ready to actively defend the interests of fellow villagers in cooperation with local self-government bodies, can noticeably intensify work on raising children, protecting their rights, protecting the family, assist in the development of the educational environment and overcoming negative social processes associated with unemployment, alcoholization of the population, crime. The article analyses the attitude to the profession in rural areas, personal and public interests, interaction with fellow villagers on health issues, interaction with authorities on health issues and issues of everyday life. The results of the study show that the social functions of a rural doctor allow improving the lives of villagers.