KS
Karisma S
Active since Feb 2026
3
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0
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Reviews
3 reviews2 months ago
Two Years of Delays, No Compensation, No Empathy – HPCSA Complaint Process
I am writing this review out of deep frustration with the handling of my complaint by the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA). In December 2021, I suffered severe facial burns and internal gum injuries during a dental procedure performed by Dr Minaar at Birchleigh Clinic. Incorrect equipment was used, resulting in burns from inside my mouth to my cheek, torn gums, long-term scarring, and ongoing complications. The impact on my life has been devastating: I could not eat or speak properly for months. I had to syringe food into my mouth. I incurred over R70,000 in specialist and medical costs. I lost income due to being unable to work. I now live with permanent scarring and a keloid on my face. I experience ongoing trauma and fear of returning to a dentist. I reported the matter to the HPCSA in good faith, believing that the regulatory body exists to protect patients and ensure accountability. However, the process took nearly two years. Throughout this time: I repeatedly followed up with little meaningful feedback. I submitted extensive documentation, photographs, receipts and medical reports. I received minimal empathy or reassurance. Communication felt procedural rather than supportive. I was eventually informed that the matter was concluded under professional conduct proceedings and that any fine imposed is paid to the HPCSA — not to the complainant — as it is not a civil compensation process. This means that: The dentist may have paid a fine. The HPCSA retained that payment. I, as the injured patient, received nothing. After two years of waiting, trauma, financial loss and emotional exhaustion, there was no compensation, no assistance with medical costs, and no meaningful support offered. While I understand that the HPCSA is not a civil court, the experience has left me feeling unheard and unsupported. A regulatory body should not only discipline practitioners but also ensure that complainants are treated with dignity, empathy, and transparency throughout the process. Instead, the delays and lack of communication added to the trauma I was already experiencing. I share this review in the hope that: The HPCSA improves turnaround times. Complainants are treated with greater empathy and communication. Patients are better informed from the start about what outcomes to realistically expect. No patient should feel re-traumatised by the very system meant to protect them.
0 replies
2 months ago
Permanent Facial Burns, No Compensation & No Accountability
In December 2021, I underwent a wisdom tooth removal procedure performed by Dr Minaar at Birchleigh Clinic. During the procedure, incorrect equipment was used. The drill bit overheated and caused a severe burn from inside my mouth through to my cheek. When the instrument was removed, my internal gums were torn on both sides. The result: Severe facial burns Torn internal gum tissue Inability to eat or speak properly for months Syringing food into my mouth for over two months Permanent scarring and a keloid formation on my face Ongoing numbness in my tongue Misalignment of my lips Continued splitting of my lips during winter I incurred over R70,000 in medical-related costs, including: Wound specialist visits (weekly sessions) Two dermatologists A cosmetic surgeon Medication, creams, dressings and travel Loss of income of approximately R80,000 as I was unable to teach online for months I was promised by Dr Minaar that he would cover all costs incurred, including my medical expenses and lost income. Those promises were never honoured. When I did not accept a reduced settlement offer, communication ceased. I escalated the matter to the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA). After nearly two years of following up, submitting documentation, images, medical reports and receipts, I was informed that the matter was concluded under professional conduct proceedings. I was further advised that any fine imposed is paid to the HPCSA and not to the complainant, as it is not a civil compensation process. To date: I have not been reimbursed. I have not received compensation. I have not received clarity on meaningful corrective action. I am still living with permanent scarring and trauma. This process has left me financially drained, emotionally exhausted, and fearful of returning to a dentist. The trauma extends far beyond the physical injury. I am sharing this review because patients deserve accountability, transparency, and care. years later, I am still dealing with the consequences — physically, emotionally, and financially. I hope this encourages proper accountability and prevents another patient from going through what I have endured.
0 replies
2 months ago
From Questions to Confidence – Thank You Kaidene
I would like to commend Kaidene Anderson from Dotsure for her exceptional service. I have been searching everywhere for pet insurance, and as a first-time pet insurance client, I had so many questions and reservations. The process felt overwhelming at first. Kaidene reached out to me, and from the very beginning, she was honest, transparent, and incredibly informative. She took the time to guide me through every detail, answered all my questions patiently, and personalized the entire experience. What stood out most was how customer-orientated she is — she even referred to my dogs as if she had known them personally, which made the conversation feel warm and genuine rather than transactional. Although I was actively considering other providers, it was her professionalism, service, and care that ultimately influenced my decision to go with the Vital Plan at dotsure — with the intention of staying long-term. Kaidene truly has the mentality of growth and change. She demonstrates strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build real trust with clients. I sincerely hope she handles many more key accounts in the future and progresses into senior roles — she has the leadership qualities to do so. Thank you for making my first pet insurance experience such a positive one.
56 replies
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