A father is seeking answers from the Ministry of Health, alleging that medical negligence led to the death of his healthy 23-year-old son last Saturday. Sitiveni Johnson, from Waiyevo, Taveuni, lost his son, Ilaisa Toroca, around 6 PM, claiming it was due to excessive bleeding after complications from a tooth extraction at Waiyevo Hospital.
Mr. Johnson stated, “The doctors and dental team at Taveuni Hospital murdered my son in his prime.” He described the tooth extraction as a simple procedure that escalated into a tragic situation, causing his son’s health to deteriorate significantly.
This incident has sparked public outrage on social media, with many criticizing the Ministry of Health for inadequate service delivery in public healthcare facilities. Efforts to reach the Minister for Health and Medical Services, Dr. Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu, for comments on the case were unsuccessful, as he declined to speak.
Many have reported issues related to delayed patient care and lack of resources, such as bedding, in major hospitals. A recent case involved a water shortage at Navua Hospital, which the ministry addressed only recently.
Mr. Johnson explained that Ilaisa first visited Waiyevo Hospital nearly three weeks ago for a tooth extraction. Five days later, he experienced persistent bleeding, prompting a return to the hospital where cotton wool was used to temporarily stop the bleeding.
When Ilaisa began vomiting blood on Friday, Mr. Johnson took him back to the hospital for a third visit. Despite his requests, medical staff supposedly did not facilitate his son’s transfer to Labasa Hospital in time. Mr. Johnson eventually arranged a flight himself, and they arrived at Labasa Airport around 3 PM, but Ilaisa died three hours later, despite medical attempts to save him.
Mr. Johnson claimed to have seen an X-ray report indicating his son was suffering from significant internal bleeding, leaving him to question the delay in the transfer to Labasa Hospital. Described as energetic and loving, Ilaisa will be laid to rest at Pagai Village, Taveuni, tomorrow.
An inquiry sent to the president of the Fiji Dental Association, Dr. Parikshath Naidu, received no response by the time of publication.