The Authority took action agai...

The Authority took action against 31 health professionals who committed medical errors and ethical breaches.
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September 23, 2019
The Addis Ababa Food and Medicine Authority reviewed and issued decisions and measures regarding 42 complaint files submitted during the 2018 fiscal year concerning medical errors and ethical misconduct at various health institutions.
The Authority investigated complaints lodged by citizens alleging medical errors or ethical violations committed by public and private health professionals during medical treatment, subsequently issuing rulings ranging from minor to serious offenses.
Investigations into these matters are conducted by health ethics committees established by the Authority; these committees comprise health professionals representing various health associations, as well as representatives from the Addis Ababa Council, justice bodies, and the Authority’s own experts. In addition to its extensive work in regulating and raising awareness regarding the competence of health professionals, the Authority reviews complaints concerning medical errors and ethical breaches—in accordance with Ethics Committee Directive No. 1/2007—and issues recommendations for decisions. Accordingly, in the recently concluded fiscal year alone, it examined 42 complaints and issued recommendations. 
Following the necessary investigations into these 42 complaints, a total of 31 health professionals were found liable for misconduct; this group comprised 3 midwives, 9 doctors, 14 nurses, 3 health officers, 1 anesthetist, and 1 emergency surgery specialist. 
Of these professionals, 30 had their professional licenses suspended for periods ranging from one month to one year and two months, while one professional received a written warning. The Addis Ababa Food and Medicine Authority has issued a call inviting any member of the public who wishes to file a complaint regarding medical errors or ethical misconduct encountered at health institutions to visit the Authority's office in person and submit their application.