PHNOM PENH: Kandal provincial governor Kuoch Chamroeun has removed the head of Setbo Health Centre from his leadership position after a viral video showing him administering emergency treatment to a 17-year-old female patient triggered widespread public criticism and allegations of inappropriate conduct.
In an administrative order on Tuesday (Aug 4), Chamroeun relieved Chhun Phally of his duties as chief of Setbo Health Centre and reassigned him to serve as a health official under the Kandal provincial administration. The order took immediate effect.
The decision came a day after footage of Phally providing first aid to a teenage patient was widely circulated on social media, prompting debate over whether the emergency treatment complied with accepted medical practice.
Many social media users alleged that the manner in which the patient was handled amounted to harassment and violated her dignity, while others questioned whether proper medical procedures had been followed during the resuscitation attempt.
Although the governor’s order did not specify the reason for Phally’s reassignment, it followed mounting public pressure over the incident.
According to information released by the patient’s family, the 17-year-old girl was rushed to Setbo Health Centre after suffering seizures and breathing difficulties.
A relative recorded the treatment in an effort to inform other family members of her condition, but the footage later spread across social media and drew widespread criticism.
The Kandal provincial health department has since launched an investigation into the incident.
Acting provincial health director Kiem Piseth said authorities would determine whether the medical procedures complied with professional standards and whether any misconduct had occurred.
“We are investigating the case. If the findings show there was misconduct or sexual harassment, the response will not be limited to administrative measures. Legal action may also be taken,” he said.
Following the backlash, Phally issued a public apology, insisting that his only intention was to save the patient’s life during a medical emergency.
“I sincerely apologise to the public and to the patient’s family if my actions during the emergency treatment caused misunderstanding. I had no intention of sexually harassing or behaving inappropriately towards the patient. My sole objective was to save her life,” he said.
The incident has reignited debate over professional ethics in Cambodia’s healthcare system, with many calling for stronger safeguards to protect patients’ dignity and privacy while ensuring healthcare workers are adequately trained in emergency medical procedures.
Authorities have yet to announce the outcome of the investigation or whether additional disciplinary or legal action will be taken against Phally. - The Phnom Penh Post/ANN
