Ungoofaaru Hospital negligence probe remains open

The investigation into the allegation that the R. Ungoofaaru Regional Hospital was negligent in the treatment of a pregnant woman, leading to the death of her and her child, remains open, says the Health Ministry.

In response to questions about action taken against persons involved in the case, an official from the Health Ministry told Sun on Wednesday that the case remains at the investigative case.

The official said the Health Ministry would take action as soon as it finishes its investigation.

Mariyam Saniya (Mary), 35, was taken to the Ungoofaaru Hospital on September 14, 2023, after she suffered a fever. She was heavily pregnant at the time.

Mary’s condition deteriorated, and she was put on a ventilator on September 17.

According to her husband, Ali Fayaz, Mary’s heart stopped as she was being put on the ventilator, and the doctors performed CPR.

They also conducted an emergency c-section, but the baby did not survive.

Fayaz transferred his wife to the Tree Top Hospital in Hulhumale’ on September 19, where she was on a ventilator, until she passed away on December 21.

According to Fayaz, the Tree Top Hospital told him that Mary’s brain, heart and kidney weren’t functioning when she was brought in.

The family alleges multiple instances of negligence by the Ungoofaaru Hospital in treating Mary.

The case gained media attention following Mary’s death on December 21. A day later, the Health Ministry announced it was reviewing the incident, but did not say when it opened the review.

Health Ministry said the case was brought to its attention by the Ungoofaaru Hospital itself.

Mary and Fayaz, both from R. Vaadhoo, had been expecting their first child.