In the realm of healthcare, trust is the cornerstone of the doctor-patient relationship. However, a recent incident in China has shaken this foundation, raising questions about the conduct of medical professionals.
In this article, we delve into the shocking case of an eye doctor who, during a cataract surgery in 2019, resorted to violence against an 82-year-old woman patient.
The incident, which came to light through a viral social media post, has not only led to the suspension of the doctor but has also sparked a broader conversation about medical ethics, patient rights, and the role of social media in holding healthcare institutions accountable.
Background of AIER Eye Hospital
To understand the gravity of the situation, it’s essential to first acquaint ourselves with the AIER Eye Hospital, a renowned institution with a branch in Guigang. The hospital’s president, surnamed Feng, has recently been suspended pending an investigation into the incident.
Details of the Incident
According to the South China Morning Post, during the cataract surgery, the elderly patient, surnamed Qin, experienced discomfort after a local anesthetic. In response to her movements and inability to understand Mandarin, Dr. Feng resorted to physically assaulting the patient’s head. The hospital contends that no harm was intended, but the video footage paints a distressing picture.
The patient’s son, Su, lodged a complaint with the hospital, seeking justice for his mother. Shockingly, the compensation offered was a mere 500 yuan (US$70), sparking further outrage.
Viral Social Media Post
The incident gained traction when Su reached out to Ai Fen, a prominent doctor known for her role in the fight against Covid-19. Ai Fen, who had her own legal battle with AIER Eye Hospital, shared the details online, bringing the incident to the forefront.
Ai Fen’s involvement adds a layer of complexity to the narrative. Her previous legal dispute with the hospital and her status as a figure with significant social media following amplify the impact of the incident, creating a stir in public perception.
Hospital’s Admission and Action Taken
Under mounting public pressure, the hospital admitted the inappropriate conduct and suspended Dr. Feng. Additionally, the hospital’s CEO faced dismissal for failing to report the incident to upper-level executives.
The incident, despite being four years old, triggered public outcry when it resurfaced. The reaction underscores the public’s demand for accountability and professionalism in healthcare settings.
Local health authorities are currently investigating the incident, with a promise to make the results public soon. This investigation is crucial in determining the extent of accountability in this case.