PARLIAMENT | The Health Ministry is investigating the death of a medical officer in Seberang Jaya Hospital, Penang, reportedly linked to overworking and alleged bullying.

Health Minister Dzulkefly Ahmad said the ministry is waiting for the outcome of internal investigations before a decision can be made on whether to form a separate independent task force.

"I am aware there are parties accusing the ministry of being slow in acting to prevent alleged bullying cases among healthcare practitioners.

"But the truth is, an internal investigation is launched as soon as a report is received," he said during Minister Question Time in the Dewan Rakyat.

"This (investigation) includes a case that you may not be aware of, a death in Hospital Seberang Jaya.

"And I am awaiting results of the internal investigation," said Dzulkefly who responded to a supplementary question from Dr Ahmad Yunus Hairi (PN-Kuala Langat).

Don’t jump to conclusions

Yesterday, The Star reported that Dr Ch’ng Hooi Ping, 31, was found dead in her car in the parking lot of the Seberang Jaya hospital on June 27, with the cause of death being due to fluid in the lungs.

According to the report, Ch'ng had served in the hospital's paediatric department and did not have a history of pre-existing medical conditions.

Her sister, identified as "Dr K", reportedly said the family believes that the untimely death was caused by overwork and exhaustion due to inadequate rest following up to 30-hour on-call duties.

However, Dzulkefly today said he will not be quick to jump to conclusions pending the outcome of internal investigations.

"Particularly, when we see the issue of manpower shortage at Seberang Jaya Hospital may not be true, and instead it's the opposite.

"There is a need for 25 medical officers at the hospital, and there are 30 there.

"This is in comparison to other hospitals for example in Alor Setar or Sungai Petani where there are real shortages," he said.

LETTER | MMA welcomes task force to probe death of Lahad Datu doctor

LETTER | MMA welcomes task force to probe death of Lahad Datu doctor

Health Ministry sets up task force to probe death of Lahad Datu doctor

Health Ministry sets up task force to probe death of Lahad Datu doctor

LETTER | Time for a health system overhaul

LETTER | Time for a health system overhaul

Health minister wants probe into death of Lahad Datu doctor

Health minister wants probe into death of Lahad Datu doctor

Sabah doc allegedly ends life due to bullying, foul play ruled out

Sabah doc allegedly ends life due to bullying, foul play ruled out