Formal disciplinary inquiry sought for suspended doctors following infant death

A formal disciplinary inquiry conducted by a board of specialists should be established for two doctors suspended over the death of an unborn baby at the Trincomalee District General Hospital.

The Government Medical Officers' Association (GMOA) made this request following the incident.

Deputy Minister of Health Dr Hansaka Wijemuni informed Hiru News that the event occurred during a nationwide strike launched by the GMOA on the 9th of last month.

A preliminary investigation by the Ministry of Health revealed that the Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, along with a Senior Residential Doctor, had neglected their duties, leading to their temporary suspension.

Records indicate that the ward doctor contacted the two suspended physicians six times on the day of the incident regarding complications involving meconium.

Neither doctor was present at the hospital at the time, and they reportedly failed to respond or attend the labour room.

Investigations further disclosed that both doctors engaged in private medical practice during their official duty hours.

They face several primary allegations, including negligence of duty, allowing harm to a child during delivery, working at a nearby private hospital while on the clock, and entering false information into the hospital's departure logs.