Health Ministry Suspends Anaesthesiology Programme at Kandouw Hospital Amid Bullying Investigation

The Ministry of Health (Kemenkes) has suspended the Specialist Doctor Education Programme (PPDS) in Anaesthesiology at RSUP Prof. Dr. RD Kandouw in Manado following the death of a participant, Adrian Rantung. Allegations of bullying during the training period have become the primary focus of the investigation.

As an immediate response, the ministry halted all activities related to the programme to ensure the investigation proceeds thoroughly and without interference. The decision was formalised through a decree issued by the hospital’s president director.

Unsrat University spokesperson Max Rembang confirmed that an intensive investigation is underway, though accurate information regarding the chronology and exact cause of death has not yet been obtained. A meeting between the university rector and hospital management was held to gather complete and transparent data.

The victim was found dead in what is suspected to be a suicide. Severe pressure stemming from bullying during his duties at the hospital is believed to be the primary trigger for the tragic incident. The Director General of Advanced Health at the Ministry of Health, Azhar Jaya, stated that the suspension demonstrates the government’s commitment to eradicating bullying practices within medical education.