The Health Ombudsman, Professor Taole Mokoena, has launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the tragic death of an intern doctor, Dr Alulutho Mazwi at the Prince Mshiyeni Memorial Hospital in uMlazi, KwaZulu-Natal.
The 25-year-old, who was recently diagnosed with diabetes, succumbed to his illness while on duty last Monday.
It has been reported that Dr Mazwi expressed feelings of unwellness prior to his passing; however, he was allegedly instructed to continue with his work duties. This incident has raised serious concerns regarding the treatment of medical interns and their working conditions within the hospital’s environment.
Spokesperson of the Ombuds office, Ricardo Mahlakanya, said the investigation will focus on determining the events leading to Dr Mazwi’s passing; evaluating the working conditions and support systems for medical interns and other health professionals at the facility; identifying any systemic issues or lapses in protocol that may have contributed to this incident and providing recommendations to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
“To maintain public trust and prevent such incidents in future, it is imperative to ensure systemic improvements in healthcare practices,” said Professor Mokoena.
Mahlakanya added that updates regarding the progress and findings of the investigations will be communicated once everything has been concluded.
Meanwhile, the KZN department of health confirmed that Dr Mazwi’s supervisor has been placed on precautionary suspension
MEC for Health in KwaZulu-Natal, Nomagugu Simelane-Mngadi, has urged interns at the hospital to come forward and voice their grievances, particularly in cases of perceived bullying or ill-treatment.
“Don’t complain amongst yourselves because you can’t fix the issue. If there’s anyone who is not being treated well, the head of department is there to address the issues, and my door is also open. Even if you can write me an anonymous letter, I will attend the issue,” she said.
Simelane-Mngadi added that there are 69 hospitals in the province, and they rely on workers to communicate their grievances.
“The door is not only open for interns, but also for every health worker who feels mistreated at work,” she said.
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