Family of man found with maggots in mouth serves KZN Health with summons
The lawyer for the family of a Chatsworth man who was found with maggots in his mouth at RK Khan Hospital last year says the Health MEC and her department have been served with a summons.
They are suing for R7.5 million.
Sadek Ebrahim had gone to the hospital in July to be treated for gangrene.
A video taken by his son during a visit showed his father in poor condition in his hospital bed. He died a few days later.
The family accused healthcare workers of negligence.
Attorney, Theasan Pillay says investigations into claims that Ebrahim's family had neglected him found that that wasn't true.
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Pillay says they believe there was negligence on the part of hospital staff.
"We looked at the treatment of the deceased before he was actually found to have maggots, and we found that the treatment was grossly negligent."
"We feel that had he been treated properly and diligently from the beginning, he would not have needed to have his limbs amputated, which ultimately gave rise to the symptoms and condition that resulted in his death."
Pillay says they've tried all other avenues and possible solutions to avoid going to court.
"Having exhausted the possibility of not going to court. We were left with no other choice but to issue summons and summons has been served."
The KZN Health Department has declined to comment.
It insists it took action immediately when the Ebrahim's matter was brought to their attention.
