Dismal obs/gynae training contributing to maternal deaths – Motsoaledi

Abstract

The local standard of training in obstetrics and gynaecology has dropped so dramatically that ‘an ordinary caesarian-section is now like brain surgery for most interns,’ says National Health Minister, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi. His claim, made at the South African Medical Association’s (SAMA’s) Millenium Development Goals (MDG’s) conference in Durban at the end of August, was bolstered by one of the world’s top maternal mortality researchers, Professor Jack Moodley, Chairperson of the National Committee on Confidential Enquiries into Maternal Deaths in South Africa and editor of 10 local ‘Saving Mothers’ reports.