Noa’s rape case outside health professions council mandate 

By: Selma Taapopi

The Health Professions Councils of Namibia (HPCNA) says the alleged rape incident involving Onandjokwe medical intern, Dennis Noa (31) happened outside a doctor-patient relationship, placing it outside the council’s jurisdiction. 

The council said it may consider whether Noa’s conduct is sufficiently serious and connected to the professional status, character, or fitness of the registered person to constitute unprofessional conduct. 

The council was responding to queries on what action would be taken against Noa following his arrest and appearance in the Ondangwa Magistrate’s Court. The incident happened at Noa’s hospital residence at the hospital. 

The council explained that criminal and professional disciplinary proceedings are separate processes. 

IPC Shadow minister for health Lilani Brinkman said for public confidence to be restored, the health ministry should ensure that the matter thoroughly and transparently investigated. 

The council further explains that a criminal conviction does not automatically result in professional sanctions. Instead, each case is assessed to determine whether the conduct affects a practitioner’s fitness to remain registered. 
 
Brinkman said the incident highlights the need to strengthen the country’s accountability measure and to ensure that healthcare workers receive training on professional ethics. 
 
The council said it recognises  that allegations of a serious sexual offence involving a registered healthcare professional may understandably affect public confidence.  The council says it will consider any matter falling within its statutory jurisdiction fairly and independently and in accordance with the Health Professions Act.

The post Noa’s rape case outside health professions council mandate  appeared first on Future Media News.