The family of six-month-old Samisoni Vana Ratuvou, fondly known as Yaca, has formally registered a complaint with the Ministry of Health following the tragic death of their infant son on Gau Island. They attribute Yaca’s passing to significant failures in medical care at the Qarani Health Centre.
In their complaint, directed to Dr. Jemesa Tudravu, the Permanent Secretary for Health, along with other officials, the family highlights that the health facility was initially closed due to a disruption in water supply, preventing Yaca from receiving timely medical attention. Upon their return later that night, they reported that the treatment process was slow and ineffective, including challenges with administering a drip. Tragically, Yaca was pronounced dead between 3 am and 4 am, with dehydration cited as the cause of death.
The heartbroken mother expressed that the family is devastated by the loss of Yaca, whom they cherished deeply. She emphasized that his brief life significantly mattered and called for urgent improvements in healthcare services, particularly in remote areas like Gau. The issues raised include a lack of basic resources, insufficient staffing, poor emergency preparedness, and delays in treatment, all of which she believes contributed to her son’s untimely death.
Furthermore, the grieving mother articulated her desire to advocate not just for Yaca, but for all children on Gau Island. She stressed the importance of ensuring that access to healthcare is recognized as a fundamental human right. As of now, the Ministry of Health has not confirmed receipt of the family’s complaint, leaving the community anxious for a response regarding their serious concerns.
This heartbreaking incident has raised significant awareness around the challenges faced by remote healthcare facilities, underscoring the urgent need for improvements to ensure that all children receive the care they deserve. The family’s courageous stand may pave the way for better healthcare policies and resources in their community, hopefully sparking necessary changes that prevent such tragedies in the future.
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