Doctor removed from Tingo María hospital duties amid alcohol allegations

A doctor working in the Emergency area of the Tingo María Hospital has been suspended following reports that he was allegedly attending to patients while under the influence of alcohol. The incident occurred early Monday, July 23, prompting an immediate investigation by the hospital's administration.

The professional, identified as General Surgery specialist Gerónimo Cano Núñez, was placed on preventive suspension. The hospital announced an administrative procedure to clarify the events and decide on any necessary sanctions. The situation came to light when an ambulance from the Mobile Emergency Care System (SAMU) arrived with a patient needing urgent attention. During this process, healthcare staff noticed the surgeon on duty exhibited signs consistent with possible alcohol consumption and reported it to the head of Emergency.

Hospital Director Ricardo Díaz Bardales personally verified the situation and decided to remove the doctor from patient care, arranging for another specialist to ensure service continuity. He clarified that security personnel present were for safety and not to detain the doctor. The hospital administration stated that the doctor will remain off duty during the administrative procedure, which is being conducted in coordination with the Surgery chief and legal advisors to establish responsibilities.

As of now, hospital authorities have not received official results confirming whether the professional was under the influence of alcohol or if an ethylometric test was administered. The preventive measure remains in place while the investigation proceeds to gather the necessary evidence to clarify the facts.