GP’s Illicit Prescriptions and Chaos at Welsh Surgery Uncovered
In a shocking revelation, a GP in Wales was found to have given illicit prescriptions to relatives while overseeing a surgery that collapsed into disarray. Dr. Sekela Mwambingu, who managed the Bromfield Medical Centre in Mold for three years, was suspended from the medical performers list after a series of shortcomings came to light.
The abrupt closure of the practice in May 2019 left more than 400 patient referrals unattended, shedding light on Dr. Mwambingu’s malpractice. Following a medical tribunal in 2023, she was permitted to resume work under supervision at another NHS surgery for a year. However, further investigations were conducted to determine her future in the medical field.
The tribunal uncovered that Dr. Mwambingu had issued prescriptions to close acquaintances, including family members, without documenting these in their medical records or informing their designated GPs. Additionally, she failed to ensure timely referrals for patients on hundreds of occasions and neglected patient concerns regarding missed referrals.
Moreover, it was disclosed that Dr. Mwambingu had pre-signed prescription forms, allowing unauthorized staff to distribute medications in her absence. She also misrepresented her financial information by withholding more than £10,000 in undeclared locum income while suspended from medical practice.
The tribunal panel expressed concerns about Dr. Mwambingu’s lack of accountability and failure to acknowledge the potential misuse of pre-signed prescriptions. Despite some acknowledgment of personal challenges faced while managing the practice solo, her actions displayed a disregard for professional standards and patient care.
Following a recent hearing, where Dr. Mwambingu reportedly exhibited improved reflection and regret, the panel extended the restrictions on her medical practice for another year. These conditions enforce her role as a salaried GP and aim to support her in rectifying her past misconducts.
While Dr. Mwambingu received praise for her interpersonal skills and efforts to address personal and professional boundaries, ongoing issues with missed referrals, inadequate record-keeping, and delays in essential procedures remained prominent. The panel highlighted instances of negligence in patient care, further justifying the need for continued supervision.
The tribunal’s decision to extend the restrictions signifies a cautious approach to Dr. Mwambingu’s reintegration into unrestricted practice. The concerns raised regarding her clinical performance and ethical conduct underscore the importance of upholding standards in medical care and ensuring patient safety.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the responsibilities entrusted to healthcare professionals and the consequences of breaching ethical guidelines. The ongoing monitoring and support provided to Dr. Mwambingu underscore the regulatory bodies’ commitment to upholding the integrity of the medical profession and safeguarding patient welfare.