Misdiagnoses Achilles Rupture from unqualified doctor

I had an extremely disappointing and concerning experience at this hospital's Emergency Department.

Following a padel accident, I was unable to walk and went to the ER specifically to determine whether I had ruptured my Achilles tendon.

The person who attended to me briefly examined my leg and assured me that everything was fine and that there was no serious injury.

Trusting this assessment, I flew back to Pretoria, where I decided to seek a second opinion from a specialist. To my shock, I was diagnosed with a 6.5 cm Achilles tendon rupture, which required immediate surgery that very same day.

What made the situation even more upsetting was discovering, after raising my concerns with the hospital, that the person who had examined me was not a qualified doctor, but a student. This was never communicated to me during my visit.

Despite bringing this serious matter to the hospital's attention, I was extremely disappointed by their response and unwillingness to accept any responsibility.

As a patient, especially in an emergency situation, you place your trust in the medical professionals treating you. Unfortunately, my experience left me feeling that this trust had been completely broken.

I am deeply disappointed in both the medical care I received and the way my complaint was handled.

Based on my personal experience, I would never return to this hospital, nor would I feel comfortable recommending it to anyone else.