Investigation Finds No Excessive Work Hours or Bullying in Trainee Doctor's Death Case
Translated from Indonesian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- An investigation into the death of a trainee doctor, dr. Siti Zahra Maghfira, found no evidence of excessive working hours or bullying.
- The Ministry of Health's joint investigation team reviewed work hours, workload, leave policies, and the work environment.
- While no workplace irregularities were found, the investigation did identify underlying health conditions, including mental health issues, requiring further attention.
An investigation into the death of dr. Siti Zahra Maghfira, a participant in Indonesia's Doctor Internship Program, has concluded that there were no excessive working hours or bullying during her tenure at Sentra Medika Cisalak Hospital in Depok. The Ministry of Health's joint investigation team, comprising various health bodies and the Indonesian Doctors Association (IDI), conducted a thorough review.
The team examined five key aspects: working hours, workload, sick leave and vacation policies, the work environment, and the participant's health condition. Their findings indicated that dr. SZM adhered to the standard 40-hour work week stipulated by the internship program guidelines. The investigation confirmed that she received adequate rest, including days off after shifts, and was not assigned duties beyond her scope as an intern.
Our examination showed no deviations in terms of working hours, workload, sick leave and vacation policies, or the work environment during dr. SZM's participation in the Internship Program.
Furthermore, the investigation found no evidence of bullying or undue pressure within the workplace. Interviews with hospital management, supervising doctors, and colleagues, along with document reviews, supported the conclusion that the work environment was conducive and supportive. Participants were also granted leave when health issues arose, without the immediate requirement to make up the time.
However, the investigation did uncover that dr. SZM had underlying health conditions that required special attention. While the Ministry of Health respects medical confidentiality and did not disclose specific diagnoses, it was noted that these conditions included issues related to mental health. The Ministry stated that these findings will not halt the evaluation of the Doctor Internship Program but will instead be used to strengthen participant protection measures.
The findings will serve as a basis for strengthening participant protection, including comprehensive physical and mental health screenings, reinforcing the role of supervising doctors, and improving communication among participants, workplaces, local governments, and the Ministry.
Originally published by CNN Indonesia in Indonesian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.