Accompanying a nomad doctor in Mongolia | DW Documentary

Key Concepts

• Mongol Reindeer Herders (Tatan Tribe): An aging, dwindling nomadic community in northern Mongolia whose culture and way of life are under threat.
• Nomadic Medicine: Providing healthcare to remote, nomadic populations, often involving long journeys and limited resources.
• Cultural Preservation: Efforts to protect and support the traditional way of life of the Tatan tribe, including their reindeer herding practices.
• Traditional Mongolian Practices: Customs and rituals such as offering milk to the earth and using reindeer products for sustenance and healthcare.
• Challenges of Nomadic Life: Hardships faced by the Tatan people, including health issues, limited access to resources, and the allure of modern life for younger generations.
• Sustainable Tourism: The role of tourism in supporting the Tatan community and preserving their culture, while minimizing negative impacts.

Shurenzek Gambald: The Nomad Doctor

• Role: Dr. Shurenzek Gambald is a dedicated doctor who travels to remote areas of northern Mongolia to provide medical care to the Mongol reindeer herders (Tatan tribe).
• Frequency of Visits: She makes the long journey twice a month.
• Journey Details: The journey involves traveling by motorcycle and then on horseback for 7-8 hours (around 80 kilometers) through challenging terrain, including rivers, mountains, and the tiger (coniferous forest).
• Motivation: Shurenzek grew up in a nomadic family and feels a strong connection to the Tatan people. She wants to support their health and help preserve their culture.
• Challenges: She faces challenges such as long travel times, limited resources, being away from her family, and the unpredictable weather.
• Support System: Her husband provides unwavering support, taking care of their child and ensuring she has everything she needs for her trips.
• "Three Lives": Shurenzek balances her roles as a village doctor, a wife and mother, and a nomad doctor.

The Tatan Tribe: Reindeer Herders

• Population: Only 52 Tatan people are registered with the local government.
• Way of Life: They are reindeer herders who move at least four times a year, living in tents called "orts" without electricity or running water.
• Reindeer Dependence: Reindeer are central to their culture, providing milk, cheese, and transportation. They do not typically slaughter the animals.
• Health Issues: Common health problems include heart disease, high blood pressure (linked to fatty reindeer milk), bladder diseases, urinary tract infections, and kidney failure (due to high humidity).
• Government Support: Since 2018, a law has been in place to protect nomadic reindeer herders, providing financial support (€100 per month for adults, €60 for children) and assistance for those returning to the traditional way of life.
• Aging Population: The average age in the community is over 40.
• Cultural Preservation: Efforts are being made to encourage young people to return to the nomadic lifestyle and preserve their traditions.

Medical Care in the Wilderness

• Limited Resources: Shurenzek carries her basic medical equipment in a bag, including a blood pressure monitor and medication.
• Challenges: Charging devices (like her blood pressure monitor) can be difficult due to limited access to electricity.
• Patient Care: She provides checkups, diagnoses illnesses, and administers treatment, often relying on family members to assist.
• Emergency Situations: In severe cases, patients may need to be transported to the hospital in Zaganur.
• Importance of Regular Visits: The Tatan people rely heavily on Shurenzek's visits for their health and well-being.

Tourism and its Impact

• Source of Income: Tourism is an important source of income for the Tatan community, helping them maintain their nomadic way of life.
• Souvenir Market: When tourists arrive, a small market springs up where they can buy souvenirs made from reindeer antlers.
• Accessibility: The remote location makes it difficult for tourists to reach the Tatan community, which helps preserve its authenticity.
• Tourist Accommodation: Some families have set up tents specifically for tourists, which are often fully booked in the summer.
• Starlink Internet: The camp elder (shaman) has a Starlink satellite internet connection, primarily for tourists.

Case Study: Zedz's Eye Problem

• Issue: Zedz experienced severe eye pain after a recent surgery.
• Diagnosis: Shurenzek suspected that a thread had been left in her eye.
• Treatment: She removed the thread with the help of family members, using a light for illumination.
• Importance: Prompt treatment was crucial to prevent infection.

The Shaman's Perspective

• Positive Changes: The shaman has observed positive changes in the community in recent years, including the return of young people and the growth of tourism.
• Community Attractiveness: He believes that tourism and the creation of souvenirs from reindeer antlers are making the community more attractive to young people.
• Link to the Outside World: The shaman's internet connection provides a vital link to the outside world.

Conclusion

Dr. Shurenzek Gambald plays a crucial role in supporting the health and preserving the culture of the Mongol reindeer herders (Tatan tribe). Her dedication, combined with government support and the income generated from sustainable tourism, offers hope for the future of this unique nomadic community. Despite the challenges they face, the Tatan people are determined to maintain their traditional way of life, and Shurenzek is committed to helping them do so.