Health committee summons Madadeni Hospital CEO after doctor arrested over sexual assault allegations

The CEO of Madadeni Hospital in northern KZN has been asked to appear before KwaZulu-Natal's Health Portfolio Committee.

Last week, a medical doctor who works at the hospital was arrested for allegedly sexually assaulting four of his female patients.

Dr Syam Prabhakaran Nair appeared in the local Magistrates’ Court last Thursday.

The portfolio committee says the allegations are deeply concerning.

Madadeni Hospital CEO summoned over sexual assault allegations against doctor

Chairperson Imran Keeka says while they respect the judicial process, it should not be used to hide poor accountability.

"We have called on the hospital CEO to appear before the committee on 15 May to account for what was known, what was done, and how patients are being protected.

"We urge any additional possible victims to come forward. We will ensure that there are no gaps between criminal proceedings and professional accountability. The safety and dignity of patients in our healthcare facilities are definitely non-negotiable."

Health committee demands accountability and stronger patient protection measures

Meanwhile, the South African Medical Association says allegations of improper conduct by the doctor risk eroding public trust in the entire healthcare system.

The association warns that misconduct by even a single practitioner can make patients fearful of seeking medical care.

Medical association warns of trust crisis in healthcare amid misconduct claims

While stressing that the case is still under investigation, SAMA's vice chairperson Zanele Bikitsha says the incident highlights a broader issue facing the profession.

Bikitsha has also emphasised the importance of patient consent, saying no examination should take place without clear explanation and permission.

“We have an ethical duty as doctors, given the vulnerability of the clients that come to us, to be holding ourselves to high moral standards.

“We have patients that allow us access to their body, which in itself is already a very intimate and nerve-wracking experience. So, we at a minimum, need to be able to hold ourselves to the highest moral standards that we can, so that our patients are at ease.”

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