Doctor suspended in Goiânia for political messages to hospital staff

Marcella Segato de Sousa Melo, head of gynecology and obstetrics at the Hospital Municipal da Mulher e Maternidade Célia Câmara in Goiânia, has been temporarily suspended following controversial messages sent to colleagues.

In a private WhatsApp group used by medical professionals and students, Melo instructed staff not to discharge patients during the weekend of the first round of elections, claiming that “the majority are petistas” (referring to the Workers' Party). Other participants in the group reportedly made similar political comments regarding voting preferences and medical rotations.

The hospital administration stated that the messages represent the personal opinions of the participants and do not reflect the institution's official stance. The Goiânia Municipal Health Secretariat has taken administrative measures, and the Regional Medical Council of Goiás (Cremego) is investigating the doctor's conduct. Additionally, the Public Prosecutor's Office is reviewing the case. Melo has issued an apology, characterizing the messages as a “joke made in a private group.”