As a concerned citizen deeply moved by Munita Devi’s heart-wrenching account of her daughter’s tragic ordeal at Nadi Hospital, there are profound questions that resonate with many within our community.
The narrative of Harshika Devi’s treatment on July 13 is profoundly troubling, highlighting serious concerns regarding the adequacy of care provided and the transparency of communication between medical professionals and Harshika’s distraught mother and family.
The events described paint a distressing picture: a young woman urgently seeking medical assistance for a sudden asthma attack, only to be administered multiple doses of Atrovent Solution without a clear understanding of its potential risks.
Ms. Devi’s anguish is palpable as she recounts the escalating medical interventions, from repeated medication administrations to her daughter ultimately being placed on life support, with inadequate explanations provided to her as a concerned parent desperately seeking reassurance.
The decision-making process during Harshika’s deteriorating condition raises significant questions about the level of consultation with senior medical staff and the clarity in communicating her prognosis to Ms. Devi and her family.
The urgency of transferring her to Lautoka Hospital underscores the critical nature of the situation, exacerbated by delays and a frustrating perception that medical assistance was not mobilized swiftly enough during such a pivotal moment.
In a recent report dated September 17, 2023, Health Minister Dr. Atonio Lalabalavu highlighted significant investments in ambulance services across Fiji’s major hospitals, including CWM Hospital, Lautoka Hospital, Twomey Hospital, St Giles Hospital, Central Health Services, Eastern Health Services, Western Health Services, and Northern Health Services, amounting to $1.7 million.
Despite these efforts, the tragic outcome for Harshika compels a deeper examination of operational efficacy and patient outcomes within these critical services.
Ms. Devi’s impassioned plea for justice is a poignant call that resonates with anyone who values accountability and transparency in healthcare delivery.
Her unwavering demand for answers — specifically regarding the circumstances leading to Harshika’s untimely passing and the precise timeline thereof — is a plea that demands attention and action.
In light of this heartbreaking incident, it is imperative that our healthcare institutions conduct thorough investigations to address Ms. Devi’s heartfelt concerns and implement measures to prevent such heartrending tragedies from recurring.
The community stands united in solidarity with Ms. Devi and her family during this profoundly challenging time, advocating tirelessly for a fair and just resolution that honors the memory of Harshika and ensures compassionate care for all patients.
I respectfully urge the Deputy Prime Minister, Minister for Health, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Women, along with their esteemed assistant ministers and permanent secretaries, to provide their comments on this matter.
It is essential that they address the grave concerns raised regarding the treatment at Nadi Hospital and the subsequent events leading to the passing of Miss Harshika Devi.
Furthermore, I call upon our current ministers to honor the commitments they made to the public prior to the 2022 General Elections.
They demonstrated admirable dedication by engaging directly with citizens, holding rallies, and fostering personal connections. Faced with Ms. Devi’s deeply troubling experience, it is now crucial that they reaffirm this dedication by ensuring justice for her and her grieving family. Upholding accountability and fairness in this matter is not only a moral imperative but also a reaffirmation of their pledge to serve the people faithfully.
I humbly urge them to translate their words into decisive actions that uphold the principles of transparency and justice.