As a concerned citizen moved by Munita Devi’s heart-wrenching account of her daughter’s ordeal at Nadi Hospital, many within our community resonate with profound questions.
The narrative of Harshika Devi’s treatment on July 13 is troubling, highlighting serious concerns regarding the adequacy of care and the transparency of communication between medical professionals and Harshika’s distraught family.
The events describe a distressing picture: a young woman seeking urgent medical assistance for a sudden asthma attack, 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 seeking reassurance.
The decision-making process during Harshika’s deteriorating condition raises significant questions about consultation with senior medical staff and 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 perception that medical assistance was not mobilized swiftly enough during such a pivotal moment.
Health Minister Dr. Atonio Lalabalavu highlighted significant investments in ambulance services across Fiji’s major hospitals, 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 for accountability and transparency in healthcare delivery. Her demand for answers regarding the circumstances leading to Harshika’s passing 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 concerns and implement measures to prevent such tragedies from recurring.
The community stands united in solidarity with Ms. Devi and her family during this challenging time, advocating for a fair resolution that honors Harshika’s memory 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 assistant ministers and permanent secretaries, to address the grave concerns raised regarding the treatment at Nadi Hospital and the subsequent events leading to Miss Harshika Devi’s passing.
Furthermore, I call upon our current ministers to honor the commitments they made to the public prior to the 2022 General Elections by ensuring justice for Ms. Devi and her grieving family. Upholding accountability and fairness in this matter reaffirms 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.
KRISHNEEL NAIR is a former journalist and a regular contributor to this newspaper. The views expressed in this article are his and not of this newspaper.