A father is seeking accountability from the Ministry of Health, claiming that medical negligence and a lack of action 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, stating that excessive bleeding following a tooth extraction at Waiyevo Hospital was the cause.
Johnson alleged, “Doctors at Taveuni Hospital and the dental team murdered my son in his prime. It was a simple tooth extraction that went horribly wrong. The dentist’s actions caused his health to deteriorate.” He shared his anguish, noting that his son’s condition worsened quickly after the procedure.
This tragedy has ignited public outrage on social media, with many criticizing the Ministry of Health for inadequate service delivery in public healthcare facilities. Attempts to reach Minister for Health and Medical Services, Dr. Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu, for his comments on the case were unsuccessful, as he stated, “Sorry, I can’t talk right now.” Complaints about delays in patient care and lack of resources, such as bedding, in major hospitals have also emerged, highlighting a broader issue. A recent water shortage at Navua Hospital has drawn attention, noted by the ministry just yesterday.
In recounting the series of events, Johnson explained that his son first visited Waiyevo Hospital nearly three weeks ago for two tooth extractions. Five days later, he returned due to persistent bleeding. Johnson said the dentist used cotton wool to temporarily stop the bleeding and sent them home. When his son began vomiting blood due to continuous bleeding on Friday, Johnson sought medical help again.
Despite his urgent appeals, he alleged that medical staff did not arrange for his son’s transfer to Labasa Hospital in time. Johnson reached out to a friend who organized a flight, and they boarded a Fiji Link flight to Labasa on Saturday. They arrived at Labasa Airport around 3 PM, but despite medical efforts to save him, Ilaisa passed away just three hours later. Johnson mentioned seeing an X-ray that indicated excessive internal bleeding, expressing despair at the delay in transferring his son.
Ilaisa, remembered for his energy and love, will be laid to rest in Pagai Village, Taveuni, tomorrow. An email to Fiji Dental Association President Dr. Parikshath Naidu for comments remained unanswered before this article went to print.