Eight health workers suspended in Manica – aimnews.org

Chimoio (Mozambique), 9 April (AIM) – Mozambican authorities have suspended eight health professionals from the central province of Manica for alleged negligence that resulted in the death of a patient and her baby during childbirth.

The tragedy occurred at the Hospital in the provincial capital, Chimoio (HPC). The professionals in question were on duty in the maternity ward of that health unit last Sunday.

According to Saulo Dimas, husband of the deceased woman, in a letter addressed to Mozambican President Daniel Chapo, the
health professionals were negligent in ignoring signs of worsening of the patient’s clinical condition.

“During labor, my wife was weak and my mother-in-law suggested that she be taken to the operating room for a cesarean section. But the nurses on duty said that would be a treat, until she couldn’t resist and lost her life along with the baby,” said Dimas. “I appeal to the President to send an investigation team to that hospital, because there are reports of other cases of negligence that culminated in deaths.”

Following the complaint, HPC management immediately suspended the entire team on duty, in order to ensure an impartial investigation.

According to HPD director Marília Pugas, speaking to journalists this Wednesday, an investigation is underway to determine the real causes of the incident.

“This is work that we are carrying out in coordination with the Public Ministry and the National Criminal Investigation Service (SERNIC). An autopsy was carried out and the results were sent to the competent authorities for further procedures”, he said.

Pugas acknowledged the existence of allegations of negligence at the hospital. She alleged this whenever such complaints are received. “We investigate and, if confirmed, we act according to the seriousness of the infractions committed”.

Pugas also appealed to the public to report any cases of poor service, in order to contribute to improving the quality of services provided.

“Patients should not be afraid to inform hospital management when they feel they are being mistreated. This is the effort we are making in the sector, to guarantee humanized care, because our greatest value must continue to be life”, he concluded.
(AIM)
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