Department pays medical negligence costs

7 Feb 2012

The Gauteng Department of Health and Social Development would like to confirm that it has paid costs related to two medical negligence cases. 

Last week, the department paid out R6,25 million in relation to the claim brought by Mr Shabbier Nagel. Mr Nagel had a leg amputated while admitted at Steve Biko Academic hospital, in Pretoria for a heart condition. 

A further R3,425 million was paid in relation to the costs claimed on behalf of Sibusiso Khanyi. Khanyi was born with cerebral palsy at Pholosong hospital. 

The South Gauteng High Court has ruled that Khanyi be paid R9,25 million and it was agreed that the amount be paid in three instalments. Two more payments will be made in the coming months.

This reflects a willingness of the provincial government to bring relief to the affected families and to assist them to reach closure.

The department views negligence amongst its staff very seriously. It took disciplinary action against 26 employees in the past two years. This resulted in the dismissal of two doctors and a nurse.

Statement issued by Simon Zwane, Gauteng Health and Social Development, February 7 2012

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