The South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) says it has taken note of the alleged procurement of hospital consumables and medical devices in breach of the Medicines and Related Substances Act.
“SAHPRA is currently investigating the matter. The Acting CEO of Tembisa Hospital is cooperating with SAHPRA officials.”
Meanwhile, SAHPRA is also working with the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) as part of this investigation process.
The local drug watchdog said the industry and healthcare professionals are urged to comply with the Medicines and Related Substances Act when procuring health products.
It also stressed that the procurement of these products must be in compliance with the requisite SAHPRA regulations.
“SAHPRA holds public safety as an important cornerstone, as part of its mandate. Any transgression in terms of unethical conduct and compromising public safety will be taken seriously and will be fully investigated,” said SAHPRA CEO, Dr Boitumelo Semete-Makokotlela.
“SAHPRA works alongside law enforcement agencies to ensure that any perpetrators face the consequences of their actions,” she continued.
According to News24, the investigation into the hospital comes in the aftermath of whistleblower Babita Deokaran's assassination. – SAnews.gov.za