Doctor suspended from Bauska Hospital over malpractice suspicions / Article

Bauska Hospital is investigating a doctor following complaints from two patients alleging malpractice that may have contributed to their relatives’ deaths. The hospital has temporarily suspended the doctor while it reviews her work over the past seven years, and the Health Inspectorate has launched its own investigation.

Patient Complaints Detail Alleged Malpractice

Aleksandra filed a complaint after her grandfather received treatment at Bauska Hospital. He was admitted for health-supporting procedures but fell into a coma within two weeks, prompting his transfer to Jelgava Hospital, where he later died. Attending physicians at Jelgava Hospital recommended filing a complaint, according to Aleksandra.

Another patient, Gundega, shared a similar experience regarding the same doctor. Her grandmother was initially able to walk but experienced changing diagnoses at Bauska Hospital, including suspected blood poisoning and urinary tract inflammation. She was ultimately given sleeping pills despite a known intolerance, and was transferred to Jelgava Hospital in serious condition with fluid in her lungs, where she died.

Hospital and Inspectorate Investigations

Following the complaints, Bauska Hospital initiated an internal investigation and suspended the doctor. “In this case, there is also a request from the Health Inspectorate… The basis for the suspension is communication, and communication is also a matter of quality. This includes medical documentation, because the prescription of medication must be reflected,” explained Margarita Epermane, Chair of the Board of SIA “Bauskas slimnīca.”

The doctor has reportedly rejected the accusations but declined to meet with the hospital to discuss them. The Health Inspectorate has confirmed it is investigating.

“The application is currently under review. We have requested both an explanation from the institution and medical documentation, which we are still awaiting,” said Iveta Hirša, head of the Health Care Department of the Health Inspectorate.

Bauska Hospital will conduct a comprehensive audit of the doctor’s work over the past seven years to ensure patient safety. “We must be sure that there are no risks in the future provision of therapy and quality assurance for patients,” said Epermane.

The Health Inspectorate has received a total of six complaints regarding Bauska Hospital this year.