Even slaves were allowed to rest

THE LAW does not allow pilots who have not had proper rest to take control of aircraft because, obviously, they have the lives of people in their hands. Yet this doesn’t apply to junior doctors. Many of these young, newly qualified professionals – who also hold the lives of people in their hands – are forced to work long shifts, often being on duty for 30 hours or more in our government hospitals around the country.

That is not fair – either on them or on their patients, who may be mis-diagnosed or incorrectly treated because the doctor’s judgment has been impaired by lack of sleep.

A soon-to-be released documentary brings the gruelling life led by young doctors into sharp focus.

has been produced by Francois Wahl, who comes from a family of doctors.

Yet even he and his crew were shocked by the conditions the doctors battle with in doing their jobs at Ngwelezana Hospital in Empangeni, northern KwaZuluNatal.

The five doctors featured in the film are shown contending with life-and-death situations ranging from stabbings to a baby with water on the brain who is brought into the hospital vomiting.

That they do such an amazing job is testament to their dedication and commitment to help others. Yet, in the film, they are seen battling with crushing fatigue which affects them physically as well as psychologically.

It sounds like the film will be riveting, if not for the squeamish.

Let’s hope someone in authority realises this treatment of our healers is nothing short of inhumane.