Doctor in Singapore handed 13-month suspension after patient underwent leg amputation
A doctor in Singapore has been suspended for 13 months after failing to promptly refer a patient with a severe foot infection to the hospital, resulting in the patient losing his right leg.
According to Shin Min Daily News, the Singapore Medical Council (SMC) took disciplinary action against family physician Dr Lim Geok Leong, who has more than 40 years of medical experience.
Patient diagnosed with severe infection and diabetes
According to the disciplinary tribunal’s grounds of decision, the case began on 11 April 2022 when the patient visited Dr Lim’s clinic under Central Medical Group.
Dr Lim diagnosed the man with severe cellulitis in his right foot. Blood glucose tests also showed the patient had severe diabetes.
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Despite the seriousness of the condition, Dr Lim prescribed oral antibiotics and arranged a follow-up appointment four days later instead of referring the patient to a hospital or specialist.
No improvement despite repeated visits
The patient returned for four more consultations on 14, 25 and 30 April, as well as 9 May 2022.
Court documents stated that Dr Lim noted there was no clinical improvement in the patient’s foot during these visits.
