Suspension of Maseru Eye Department Head Raises Concerns Over Patient Care

The suspension of Dr Wenjun Fan, Head of the Eye Department at Maseru District Hospital, has sparked concern over access to specialized eye care in Lesotho. Dr Fan, one of only two ophthalmologists in the country, warned that his absence could overwhelm Queen ‘Mamohato Memorial Hospital, home to the other eye specialist.

Dr Fan, of Chinese origin, has worked in Lesotho since 2012. He began at QMMH before transferring to Maseru District Hospital in 2016, where he has led the Eye Department. His suspension comes amid allegations that he leaked confidential hospital information to the media.

In an interview, Dr Fan said he accepts the suspension and plans to consult a lawyer but is worried about patient care. He noted that nurses currently conducting consultations lack the training to independently diagnose patients, particularly when examining the back of the eye. “If mistakes happen and patients are misdiagnosed, who will take responsibility?” he asked.

On 15 October 2025, Medical Superintendent Dr ‘Mabatho Masupha issued a show-cause letter citing several alleged acts of misconduct. These included failing to conduct a medical review for a five-year-old girl on 23 September 2025, threatening hospital management on 12 September by claiming he would report them to the Chinese government, posting inappropriate remarks about the medical superintendent on 10 September in a WhatsApp group, limiting daily patient numbers in the Eye Department to 40 without approval, and booking a child for surgery without ensuring admission to the ward.

Dr Fan denied all allegations. He stated there was no record of the 23 September patient or any request for a medical review. Regarding the 12 September meeting, he said he was not part of hospital management and requested verification through meeting minutes. On the WhatsApp claims, Dr Fan said he was raising issues previously discussed in Head of Department meetings to ensure proper attention.

He also disputed claims about limiting patient numbers. Records show the department saw over 60 patients daily since 4 September 2025. Dr Fan explained that management prevented nurses from assisting him, limiting his ability to maintain high-quality care for all patients.

Regarding the surgical case, he confirmed the child’s operation was completed successfully after a delay in admission due to ward instructions.

Health experts warn that with only two ophthalmologists in Lesotho, the suspension could severely affect patient care at Maseru District Hospital. The situation highlights the urgent need for more specialized eye care professionals and stronger departmental support to prevent gaps in service delivery. Dr Fan’s suspension underscores ongoing challenges in hospital management, staff coordination, and patient safety within Lesotho’s healthcare system.