An investigation into a doctor that may have discharged a teenage burn victim before he was properly treated is underway.
On January 4th, 19-year-old Valeriano Pop was burning garbage in his yard when it suddenly exploded, causing third degree burns to 75% of his body. He was rushed to the Independence Polyclinic where the doctor allegedly told his mother that his injuries were minor and then released him. However, after Pop began screaming in pain and fainting, he was rushed to the Punta Gorda Hospital and then to KHMH, where he is being treated.
The Ministry of Health had indicated that they would investigate the doctor who sent him home early, and yesterday, the CEO gave us a brief update.
Dr. Julio Sabido, CEO, Ministry of Health
"It is an ongoing investigation, we have gotten reports from the doctor and from the facility and now we need to get the reports from Karl Heusner so that we can compile them and look at it. But it is an ongoing investigation."
Reporter:
"When would you expect such an investigation to conclude?"
Dr. Julio Sabido, CEO, Ministry of Health
"I would say another two weeks until we have a clearer picture of what happened, so in the next two weeks."
