Doctor suspended in Errachidia hospital amid bribery allegations

Moroccan authorities have suspended a specialist doctor at the Moulay Ali Cherif Regional Hospital in Errachidia. The Ministry of Health and Social Protection announced the precautionary suspension pending further investigation and a disciplinary hearing.

The decision stems from an administrative report detailing a complaint filed by a patient and their spouse. They allege the doctor, who specializes in gastroenterology, requested 3,000 dirhams for an examination. The complainants also claim the doctor suggested they seek private medical care for a potential surgery, despite not being the primary treating physician for the case.

Sources indicate the accusers possess audio recordings allegedly capturing the doctor requesting a move to a private clinic. In response, the regional health director dispatched a committee to the hospital to investigate the claims. The committee reviewed medical and administrative records and interviewed relevant parties.

The hospital experienced significant activity following the committee's arrival. The report reportedly contains serious findings regarding the interactions between the doctor and the complainants. The investigation will proceed in accordance with administrative and legal procedures, respecting the presumption of innocence until a final decision is made by the competent authorities. The disciplinary council will hear the doctor and confront her with the evidence, including the WhatsApp recordings.