Doctor Dies by Suicide After Being Forced to Work a 36-Hour Shift

Doctor Desree Moraa Obwogi, a medical intern at Gatundu County Referral Hospital has tragically died by suicide. 

According to a statement from the medical interns’ fraternity of Kenya, Moraa was pushed to her breaking point because of frustrations from her supervisors at the facility. 

Further, the statement noted that Moraa struggled to meet her basic needs, such as rent and utility bills, compounded by the relentless demands from supervisors and consultants.

Additionally, the doctor was forced to work shifts that were longer than 36 hours without rest or good food to eat.

She died on Sunday, September 23.

“Her untimely death, reportedly by suicide, highlights a dire situation that has persisted within our ranks-one marked by overwhelming financial constraints and a toxic work environment,” the statement read in part.

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Ministry of Health put on the Spot

At the same time, the statement noted that Moraa’s situation was not an isolated case, calling on the Ministry of Health to address the negligence and inconsiderate treatment of medical interns. 

Moraa’s death has sparked an outpouring of grief and conversations about the difficult conditions faced by medical interns in Kenya.

“The mental health implications of such conditions cannot be overstated; we have witnessed too many lives lost to suicide over the years without any meaningful action from the relevant authorities.

“As medical interns, we contribute approximately 30 percent of the labor in public health facilities, often enduring extended shifts exceeding 36 hours without adequate rest or meals.”

They have also highlighted the inhumane treatment intern doctors endure from senior doctors and consultants in different medical facilities. 

“Also, the inhumane treatment some of us face from senior doctors and consultants is unacceptable and must be condemned in the strongest terms.

“We stand in solidarity with Dr. Moraa’s memory and all those who have faced similar struggles.”

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Doctors Announce 36-Hour Mourning Period

The doctors and medical interns have made a decision to honor Moraa by observing 36 hours of mourning starting Tuesday, September 24, 2024, at noon. 

During this period, all medical interns (medical officers, dentists, and pharmacists) will withdraw their services.

Medical facilities have been directed to anticipate and plan accordingly to ensure health and medical services are not interrupted.

“We urge all medical superintendents, chief executive officers of major referral hospitals, county executive committee members of health, and all medical interns to join us in this solemn remembrance.”

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