HLK to seek official documentation over patient's death in Zadar; criticizes media naming doctor

The Croatian Medical Chamber (HLK) has announced its intention to formally request all relevant medical documentation concerning the tragic death of a 35-year-old patient in Zadar. The patient reportedly passed away on April 17, not long after seeking medical assistance. While expressing sincere condolences to the family, the HLK stressed the importance of a thorough, professional, and impartial investigation into all circumstances surrounding any death that occurs after medical care has been provided. The chamber noted that an internal expert review is underway, but cautioned against drawing premature conclusions about potential oversights or responsibilities before these official processes conclude. The HLK's commission will specifically seek the official medical records from the healthcare institution involved. The chamber acknowledged the public's concern and the family's pain, stating that answers can only be provided based on facts, medical documentation, and professional standards, not speculation or media sensationalism. Furthermore, the HLK strongly condemned the unethical and irresponsible act of publishing the doctor's full name in the media, highlighting that such actions, particularly during an ongoing internal review, expose the physician to public condemnation and violate principles of presumed innocence, a practice generally followed even in cases of serious criminal offenses within Croatia and the EU. The chamber called for restraint, responsibility, and respect for the presumption of innocence from both the media and the public.

“

Budući da je, prema dostupnim informacijama, pokrenut interni stručni nadzor, Hrvatska liječnička komora upozorava da se zaključci o mogućim propustima ili odgovornosti ne smiju i ne mogu donositi prije završetka nadležnih postupaka.