Mediclinic Panorama Hospital has cut ties with Dr Ignatius Botha, a general surgeon specialising in laparoscopic procedures following allegations of inappropriate conduct by a patient and harassment of female staff members.
A complaint was made against Dr Botha after he allegedly performed a pelvic examination without wearing surgical gloves on a young female patient who sought treatment for an abscess under her arm.
According to a statement from Mediclinic Panorama Hospital, Dr Botha has been excised from his consulting rooms while an investigation is underway. The Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) confirmed that a formal complaint has been lodged against him, triggering an official inquiry into the matter.
Dr Botha has denied any intentional wrongdoing and is cooperating with the investigation.
Dr Botha has been affiliated with Mediclinic Panorama since 1992, following his tenure as a consultant at Tygerberg Hospital. His expertise lies in laparoscopic surgery, covering procedures such as gallbladder, colon, appendix, spleen and hernia operations. He is also experienced in thyroid and breast surgeries, intensive care and surgical oncology.
Mediclinic Panorama, a leading multidisciplinary acute care facility in Cape Town, has reiterated its commitment to maintaining a safe and professional environment for patients and staff. In a statement, a hospital spokesperson noted: ‘We take all allegations of misconduct seriously and are cooperating fully with the HPCSA to ensure a thorough and fair investigation.’
While no details have been provided on the investigation timeline, Dr Botha has not publicly commented on the allegations. In the meantime, the hospital has confirmed that patients under his care will be referred to alternative specialists to ensure continuity of treatment.
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