IPA: /ˈfɛldʃər/
KK: /ˈfɛldʃər/
A type of medical worker who provides care and treatment but does not have full medical qualifications, commonly found in some Eastern European countries.
In rural areas, a feldsher often serves as the primary healthcare provider for the community.
Feldsher originates from the German word 'Feldscher', which is a compound of 'Feld' (meaning field) and 'scher' (from 'scheren', meaning to shear or cut). The term historically referred to a field surgeon or a person who provides medical care in the field, particularly in military contexts.
Think of a 'field' where a 'surgeon' operates — a feldsher is someone who provides medical care in the field.