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Dr Parirenyatwa

Walter Nyamukondiwa Chinhoyi Bureau
Government will set up a board of enquiry to probe the operations of Chinhoyi Provincial Hospital, amid allegations of mismanagement at the institution. The enquiry will investigate claims and counter-claims about sub-optimal operations at the hospital, including alleged staff negligence involving patients.

Making the announcement after touring the hospital last week, Health and Child Care Minister Dr David Parirenyatwa said his permanent secretary, Dr Gerald Gwinji, would soon constitute the board.

We would want the board of enquiry constituted as a matter of agency to investigate allegations flying around about operations of the hospital so that the administration is put at ease, he said.

Dr Parirenyatwa said there were numerous anonymous letters coming from members of staff alleging irregularities in operations at the hospital.
Medical superintendent Dr Collett Mawire told Dr Parirenyatwa, who was accompanied by his deputy Dr Paul Chimedza and Provincial Affairs Minister for Mashonaland West Faber Chidarikire, about alleged sinister plots and the anonymous letters.

Management has found it difficult to control some members of staff purportedly due to their supposed affiliations and untouchable nature, he said.
Dr Mawire said one State certified nurse unilaterally changed his uniform to that of a registered general nurse before threatening the executive with unspecified action.

The same member of staff has since traded his epaulettes for military badges, he further alleged.
A radiographer allegedly refused to do scans on patients before turning the matter into a political issue.

Dr Parirenyatwa said until the board finalised its investigations and came up with recommendations, Dr Mawire’s administration remained in charge.

He noted that the hospital had good infrastructure but needed proper management to maintain and improve standards.
Equipment such as autoclave machines, laundry and boilers at the hospital are no longer working owing to old age and lack of spares.