Health Ombud finds no evidence linking KZN healthcare worker deaths to workplace conditions

Health Ombud Professor Taole Mokoena says an independent investigation has found no evidence that the deaths of healthcare professionals employed at KwaZulu-Natal public hospitals were linked to working conditions, workplace bullying or victimisation.

In a media briefing in Pretoria on Wednesday Mokoena outlined the findings of a joint investigation into a series of deaths involving healthcare workers at public health facilities across the province. The investigation was launched following public concern and allegations that hostile working environments had contributed to the deaths.

Among the cases investigated were those of medical intern Dr Alulutho Mazwi and Dr Francis Idika of Vryheid Hospital, whose deaths sparked widespread calls for accountability and renewed scrutiny of working conditions in the public health sector.

Dr Mazwi, who was diabetic, died at Prince Mshiyeni Memorial Hospital after claims that he had been required to continue working despite reporting that he was unwell. Dr Idika, a Nigerian-born doctor at Vryheid Hospital, was reported to have died by suicide amid allegations that he had been subjected to workplace bullying and mistreatment.

The allegations prompted demonstrations by the Public Servants Association (PSA), which protested outside both hospitals last year, demanding improved working conditions and accountability from health authorities.

However, Mokoena said investigators found no evidence to substantiate claims that workplace bullying or victimisation contributed to Dr Idika's death. He added that several of the allegations made during the public debate were not supported by evidence and, in some instances, were found to be fabricated.

The investigation also examined the death of Dr Tumelo Kgaladi of Addington Hospital. Mokoena said investigators established that Kgaladi died at his home while off duty. The investigation further found that he had a history of mental health challenges before joining the hospital, and that these had not been disclosed to the institution at the time of his appointment.

Mokoena said the investigation was conducted independently and impartially. It included site inspections at the affected hospitals, interviews with hospital staff, unions and other stakeholders, as well as a review of medical records and other available evidence before the findings were finalised.