Tufton orders probe into woman's death at Falmouth Hospital

Health Minister, Dr Christopher Tufton, says he has ordered a high-level probe into the death of a woman who was admitted to the Falmouth Hospital in Trelawny.

The probe follows complaints on social media from family members who have alleged negligence on the part of the hospital. 

In a media release on Monday evening, Tufton said the investigation will be conducted through the Office of the Chief Medical Officer in conjunction with the Western Regional Health Authority.

"I'm hoping that there will be a speedy conclusion as to what exactly happened," Tufton said.

"These are always very unfortunate, especially when you lose a loved one. Creates a lot of pain and suffering and it is important that the system responds to provide absolute transparency on what may have happened and top draw the appropriate conclusions based on the evidence, based on the information," he added.

He said a technical team from the ministry has been dispatched to the facility to initiate the investigation.

Tufton also said the Regional Health Authority has contacted the family and will provide counselling as needed.

The health minister urged persons to await the investigations before drawing any conclusions.

In the meantime, Tufton reminded that the Ministry of Health and Wellness has in place a Complaints Management System, which allows users of Jamaica's healthcare facilities to report any concerns that they may have.

The Complaints Management System is accessible at the level of each public healthcare facility or alternately online at the Ministry's website, www.moh.gov.jm.

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