Austrian dentist refuses to treat Erdoğan supporters

Dental Tribune International

Fri. 28. April 2017

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INNSBRUCK, Austria: A dentist in Austria has caused some sensation with his protest message directed at patients. For three weeks, his practice bore a sign stating that supporters of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan would not be treated. The note was shared widely on social networks and the subject of much debate. Turkish television even reported live from the scene.

On a piece of paper, the dentist announced in Turkish that people who agree with Erdoğan’s politics should not seek appointments at his practice. Images of the note on the door spread online, eliciting both positive and negative responses.

The Turkish TV channel A Haber, known to be pro-Erdoğan, included a Nazi reference during its live reporting, according to Austrian media.

The Austrian dental association intervened and advised the dentist to remove the note.

In the meantime, the Erdoğan critic has given a statement on the incident to the media. He had wanted to take a stand against the political line of the Turkish President and the outcome of the recent Turkish referendum, the dentist told daily newspaper Österreich. However, he assured that “anybody seeking an appointment will be treated without being asked about his or her political views”.

With a sign on the door of his practice in Innsbruck, a dentist addressed himself directly in Turkish to prospective patients. His message included a big “No!” (Turkish: hayır) next to a photograph of Turkish President Erdoğan. (Source: Facebook)

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