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South African Health Department Saves Billions in Medical Malpractice Claims

In a significant development, the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has saved provincial health departments in South Africa more than R3 billion in medical malpractice claims. However, the Hawks, a specialized crime-fighting unit, have clarified that they are not investigating these claims, despite the SIU’s efforts.

According to Godfrey Lebeya, the head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, also known as the Hawks, the unit is only involved in cases where criminal conduct is identified. Lebeya stated that the Hawks are working closely with the SIU and are sharing notes as they continue their investigation.

The SIU’s investigation, which was briefed to the media by Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi and SIU head Andy Mothibi, revealed that more than R100 billion in medico-legal claims have been made against provincial health departments. The largest claims were made against KwaZulu-Natal (R29 billion), Gauteng (R24 billion), and Eastern Cape (R22.3 billion).

The SIU’s efforts have saved the health departments significant amounts of money, which could be better spent on providing quality healthcare services to the public. The investigation is ongoing, and it remains to be seen whether the Hawks will become involved in any cases that are deemed to have criminal elements.