In a deeply tragic turn of events, Professor Taole Mokoena, South Africa’s Health Ombud, has initiated an official investigation into the untimely death of Dr. Alulutho Mazwi, a 25-year-old medical intern who collapsed and died on May 12 while on duty at Prince Mshiyeni Memorial Hospital in KwaZulu-Natal.
The investigation was launched following a formal request by Health Minister Dr. Aaron Motsoaledi. It aims to uncover the circumstances surrounding Mazwi’s death, particularly the claims that he was forced to continue working despite feeling unwell.
According to reports, Dr. Mazwi, who had been recently diagnosed with diabetes, allegedly informed his supervisor about his deteriorating health. Despite this, he was instructed to keep working, which some believe may have contributed to his tragic collapse.
The probe will focus on several key areas, including:
- The working conditions for interns and junior healthcare professionals at Prince Mshiyeni Memorial Hospital
- The support systems in place for medical staff, particularly those dealing with health conditions
- Possible systemic failures within South Africa’s public health sector, which may have allowed such a tragedy to occur
The incident has sparked widespread outrage, with medical unions, political parties, and professional associations like the Samatu and the Public Servants Association condemning what they call “inhumane treatment” of junior doctors in public health institutions.
In the wake of the incident, a supervisor at Prince Mshiyeni Memorial Hospital has been placed on precautionary suspension, pending the outcome of the investigation.
The Health Ombud’s office has vowed to conduct a thorough and transparent investigation, with the authority to subpoena individuals and records as needed. This investigation follows a similar case involving the death of another doctor at Vryheid Hospital, amplifying national concerns about the welfare of healthcare workers and highlighting potential systemic deficiencies in South Africa’s public healthcare system.
