Repeated Bullying Allegations at Manado's Kandou Hospital Before Doctor's Death

The death of Dr Adrian Rantung, a specialist doctor trainee in anaesthesiology at Sam Ratulangi University’s Faculty of Medicine, has once again drawn public attention. The incident has revived discussions regarding alleged bullying practices within the specialist medical education environment at RSUP Prof. Dr. R.D. Kandou in Manado.

This is not the first time the hospital’s name has been linked to allegations of bullying against participants in the Specialist Doctor Education Programme. Previously, in 2024, the Ministry of Health took firm action by temporarily suspending the Internal Medicine Specialist Doctor Education Programme at the same hospital due to findings of alleged bullying.

The death of Dr Adrian Rantung has caused deep sorrow within the health sector. The young doctor, who was still undergoing his anaesthesiology specialist training, was found dead in his boarding room. He is suspected of having taken his own life by ingesting bathroom cleaning fluid.

Allegations have emerged suggesting that psychological pressure stemming from the educational culture and bullying by seniors was a contributing factor to the victim’s mental state. These allegations are currently being investigated by various parties. The case has sparked widespread attention as it echoes a similar issue that surfaced two years prior at the same hospital.

In 2024, the Ministry of Health temporarily froze the activities of the Internal Medicine Specialist Doctor Education Programme at the hospital. The decision was made after the ministry received multiple reports regarding alleged bullying of trainees. The temporary suspension was formalised in an official letter signed by the then Director General of Health Services, Dr Azhar Jaya, on 5 October 2024.

According to Azhar Jaya, the measure demonstrated the government’s commitment to creating a safe medical education environment free from violent practices. He stated that the decision was based on strong grounds, including numerous incoming reports, strong evidence found after an investigation by the Inspectorate General, and prior warnings having been issued.