By Wendy Mkandawire
The Malawi Health Equity Network (MEHN) has commended the Medical Council of Malawi for taking disciplinary action against health practitioners found to have misused their positions and offices, stating that the move will promote professionalism and give patients confidence to report abuse.
In an interview, MEHN Executive Director George Jobe described the Council’s decision as commendable, noting that it addresses long-standing concerns about intimidation and unprofessional conduct by some health workers, particularly in public hospitals.
Jobe said that over the past period, their organization has received several complaints regarding the conduct of some health workers who tend to intimidate patients when seeking medical assistance, stating that the action answers their long-time call and advocacy.
The Council announced the sanctions after concluding 21 disciplinary cases heard under Section 53 of the Medical Practitioners and Dentists Act.
According to a statement from the Council’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Davie Zolowere, 17 of the cases originated from public health facilities and 4 from private facilities. Of the 21 cases, 13 practitioners were found guilty, 7 were cleared, and 1 case was referred.
The practitioners disciplined include doctors, clinical officers, nurses, medical assistants, and 8 hospital managers.
The Council imposed various penalties, with some health workers receiving written warnings on ethics, informed consent, and professionalism.
Jobe has since appealed to members of the public to report any challenges they encounter while seeking medical treatment to the relevant authorities.
The Council says it will continue enforcing professional standards to protect patients’ rights and uphold discipline in the health sector.
