Pretoria, South Africa – Next month, the courtroom will see Yolande Maritz, a former midwife from Pretoria, facing serious allegations related to her tenure as a healthcare provider. Maritz has been accused of contributing to numerous instances of death and severe disability among newborns due to her actions while providing midwifery services.
Maritz’s journey to the courtroom has etched deep lines of concern across the community, particularly among families who have suffered under her care. Charges mounted against her include the improper use of medication during deliveries, which is believed to have led to catastrophic birth outcomes.
Communications manager Barry Bateman of AfriForum’s private prosecution unit indicated that despite these serious allegations, it took a considerable amount of time and effort to bring these cases to light. “It’s been a relentless pursuit for justice,” Bateman said, noting that Maritz has been summoned to appear on July 24 on charges of assault.
According to Bateman, clients such as Carien Möller and Alysia von Kloëg, who experienced the trauma of losing a child and having another born with a severe disability respectively, have been at the centre of the case. These incidents occurred in 2020 and 2022, sparking criminal complaints against Maritz.
The South African Nursing Council found Maritz guilty of negligence and unprofessional behavior back in 2021, which led to her being stripped of her midwife certification. However, the case’s slow movement through legal channels prompted AfriForum’s unit to intervene more assertively this year, fearing Maritz could continue her practice unchecked.
Dr. Angelique Coetzee, a local general practitioner, stressed the significance of the role played by midwives in pregnancy and childbirth. She insists on the utmost professionalism and preparedness for potential complications during deliveries. “A thorough understanding of risk factors, together with proper emergency training, are key to managing complicated pregnancies safely,” she urged.
Additionally, Coetzee highlighted the obstacles midwives face, such as limited resources and access to advanced medical facilities, which can have a dramatic impact on the quality of care provided. She champions continued education and training for midwives to ensure their readiness in various birth scenarios.
Forensic criminologist Dr. Pixie du Toit offered advice to prospective parents, emphasizing the importance of vetting healthcare providers thoroughly to avoid entrusting their care to unqualified individuals. “It’s crucial that parents perform thorough background checks,” du Toit advised.
Echoing a sentiment of relief mixed with frustration, Du Toit and others close to the case express gratitude that the judicial system is finally moving forward with Maritz’s case, though they lament the time it has taken to reach this stage.
This court case is not just a hearing of charges but a spotlight on the broader issues of accountability and the standards of care in maternal health services, resonating deeply within the Pretoria community and beyond as they await July’s court proceedings.