Marigot, Dominica – January 14, 2024
In response to a letter circulating on social media regarding the temporary suspension of elective surgeries at the Dominica China Friendship Hospital, Dominica’s Minister of Health Cassani Laville has addressed the issue, expressing deep concern over the decision-making process and lack of proper consultation.
The Minister emphasized that the decision, impacting patient care significantly, was made without following the established guidelines outlined in the Hospitals Authority Act of 2021. According to the Act, the board plays a crucial role in coordinating the administration and operation of the authority, making recommendations to the minister on the development of the authority and healthcare services.
The lack of communication regarding the shortage of essential medical supplies and the decision to suspend elective surgeries without proper approvals highlight an oversight of the board’s role in the decision-making process. The Minister expressed dismay at learning about the matter through social media rather than through official channels.
To address these concerns, the Minister has mandated the implementation of an electronic logistics management system, operational by February 16th, holding responsible agencies within the ministry accountable. The Minister highlighted recent incidents where drugs were obtained through special arrangements with neighboring islands and expedited shipment arrangements provided by the regional security system (RSS).
The Minister urgently requested a meeting with the board, CEO, and hospital medical director to address several issues:
- Unauthorized issuance of the letter: Investigate and address the circumvention of proper approval protocols.
- Lack of communication and oversight: Examine the failure in communication and oversight regarding the stock management of essential medical supplies.
- Documentations of decisions: Establish a documented progression of decisions, alerts, and recommendations related to stock shortages and critical issues.
- Patient confidentiality: Foster a culture of confidentiality as patient confidentiality is sacrosanct.
The Minister in an audio statement released today clarified that the suspension of elective surgeries primarily affects non-urgent procedures that can be delayed, ensuring that urgent and critical surgeries will still be performed. The Ministry of Health remains committed to providing quality healthcare services while upholding proper governance and transparency.
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Source: Statement by Dominica’s Minister of Health.
