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A woman is demanding answers after her baby died three days after being delivered at Southland Hospital by a American doctor with a history of malpractice suits.
The Health and Disability Commissioner is investigating her complaint against Dr Enrique Tomeu, the Southland District Health Board and midwife Bernie Archer.
Invercargill Coroner's Court heard during an inquest last week that the baby girl died from a subgaleal haemorrahage, which can result from using vacuum cups during labour. The coroner's ruling is expected next month. Tomeu has since returned to the United States.
Felicity McMillan said her first contact with Tomeu was two hours into her labour. "I was in pain. It was my first pregnancy - I didn't know what to expect."
She said the suction cup was used twice, once by Tomeu, to get the baby's head in the correct position.
Tomeu has been involved in several malpractice suits overseas. In May 2003 he settled a case for $360,000 and currently he has four cases pending.
"He should never have been employed in the first place with those malpractice suits against him."
Dr Nigel Murray, acting chief executive of Southland District Health Board, said extensive checks had been made into Dr Tomeu's background before he was hired.
