SIU to probe dodgy medical negligence claims
President Cyril Ramaphosa has authorised the SIU to conduct a sweeping investigation into dodgy medical negligence claims against the state – a move expected to rein in soaring sums being paid out by provincial health departments.
A Business Day report says the government handed over R1.74bn in compensation to victims of medical negligence in the year to 31 March 2021.
Contingent liabilities rose to a record high R120.3bn in 2020/2021, up from R111bn the year before.
Most claims are for the effects of severe birth injuries.
The SIU probe is just one aspect of government attempts to curb unbudgeted payouts for medical negligence, which cuts spending on personnel and vital health services.
In a proclamation published in the Government Gazette, the SIU was authorised to investigate allegations of fraud and maladministration involving the national health department and all provincial health departments for medical negligence claims lodged between January 2013 and July 2022.
But the probe may extend beyond this time frame and to other state entities such as the Office of the State Attorney.
It will also seek to recover funds obtained fraudulently from the government.
Article disclaimer: While we have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of this article, it is not intended to provide final legal advice as facts and situations will differ from case to case, and therefore specific legal advice should be sought with a lawyer.
