Shocking Developments in the Twin Sisters Case: Parliament Questions Medical Mismanagement

Physiatrist's First Knowledge of the Case

In 2023, the physiatrist became aware of the twins' case following the prescription of wheelchairs by a doctor in their service, which he deemed "a bit high" during validation.

Four Electric Wheelchairs Requested

The director of Physiatry at Santa Maria reported that four electric wheelchairs were prescribed—two from Alcoitão and two purchased by the hospital, which were later given to other children since the twins never picked them up.

Criticism of Public Fund Management

He remarked, "The wheelchairs prescribed by Santa Maria were delivered there and never left Santa Maria. It didn’t seem like good management of public funds."

Mother's Concerns Over Missing Support Products

The physiatrist revealed that the twins' mother mentioned a lack of support products and that there were nine support products prescribed over four occasions for the Lusobrasilian twins, including wheelchairs prescribed on February 20, 2023, and delivered at the end of 2023.

Changing Needs of the Children

The doctor noted that “the children came with a plethora of items” to Portugal, but their needs changed as they grew. The first support equipment was prescribed on January 27, 2021, while the wheelchairs were prescribed on February 20, 2023.

Unusual Admission Process

The director of Physiatry expressed that it wasn’t “normal” how the children were admitted to Santa Maria Hospital, stating that he had never seen such a case in nearly 40 years of career.

Denial of Pressure by Medical Staff

Before being questioned by parliament members, Dr. Francisco Sampaio stated that the involvement of his service was due to a "normal internal request" to observe the children and that he received no pressure from the administration.

CPI's Next Steps

The committee investigating the twins' case decided to ask the President of the Assembly of the Republic to appeal the Supreme Administrative Court's decision regarding the inquiry committee's name.

Neuropediatrician Acknowledges Pressure

Neuropediatrician Tiago Proença dos Santos admitted there was “pressure” and that the letter he initiated aimed to highlight the cost of a medication for patients already treated in Brazil.

Clarification on Treatment Choices

He clarified that “we never thought these patients should not be treated” and that Dr. Teresa Moreno was never forced to choose Zolgensma as a treatment.

Discussion of the Case's Implications

Proença dos Santos noted that this case opens “two Pandora's boxes,” acknowledging the complexities involved when treating patients already receiving care in their home countries.

The hearing continues as the investigation seeks to uncover the full story behind the twins' medical journey.