The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Nutrition has launched an internal investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of 10-year-old Amelia Isidore at the Jacmel Wellness Centre on January 29.
In an update on Thursday, Chief Medical Officer Dr Sharon Belmar-George said the ministry recognises the distress caused by the incident and has moved quickly to review what occurred.
Isidore had a medical emergency earlier in the day while at school. She was subsequently taken to the Jacmel Wellness Centre, where she passed away despite medical intervention.
“At the Ministry of Health, we continue to make it a priority to ensure the care and well-being of every patient we serve on a daily basis,” Dr Belmar-George stated. “Therefore, following the recent incident at the health facility, we have immediately launched an internal investigation to understand the factors surrounding the level of care provided to the patient.”
She noted that details of the case cannot be shared at this time due to confidentiality requirements. However, the chief medical officer assured the public that the review will be thorough.
“The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Nutrition asks for the cooperation and understanding of the public as we undertake a thorough review of this recent situation,” she said.
Dr Belmar-George also expressed condolences to Isidore’s family and acknowledged the impact of the tragedy on the wider community.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends, loved ones, classmates, teachers, and members of the community who have been affected by this unexpected loss,” she said.
