…investigation launched by Health Ministry

In a rapid response to arrive at the truth, the Health Ministry on Wednesday launched an investigation into a peculiar incident that sent shockwaves through the country whereby a 37-year-old Berbice mother who expected to give birth to twins woke up to one baby at the Anamayah Memorial Hospital in Berbice, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne).

Omawattie Samaroo

Omawattie Samaroo of Number Two Village, Corentyne, Berbice, was repeatedly told by doctors she was pregnant with twins. Medical records evidently also confirmed the mother was carrying two foetuses. However, following her caesarean delivery on September 12, Samaroo was only given one baby and told the doctors made a mistake during the interpretation of the ultrasound images. The Hospital said it was a case of “mirror artifact” in that the ultrasound showed a highly reflective image creating the illusion of a twin.

Despite this explanation, the new mother insisted she was carrying twins. She strongly believes her baby died and the Hospital is trying to cover it up.

During an interview with Guyana Times on Thursday, Health Minister Dr George Norton said a probe has already commenced into the matter. He said several health officials visited the Hospital and family on Wednesday to gather information relating to the matter. From data received, Dr Norton conceded that the situation could indeed be a case of “mirror artifact”, but he acknowledged the plight of the mother, who is adamant she carried twins, especially since twins were common in her family.

Before a comprehensive probe is launched however, the Minister said the family would have to file a complaint. Dr Norton said health officials have already briefed the mother on her options and they are currently waiting on her to make the formal report before the in-depth investigation can begin.

“We are really hoping she does make a complaint,” the Minister said, noting that the case is really interesting. If the family does not make a complaint, the Minister admitted that a probe can still be launched; however, it would have to be a general probe into the practices of the Hospital.

The Minister indicated that it was premature to pronounce on possible sanctions the hospital could face. He did note that from all indications, it appeared that the radiologist was not academically qualified for that position.

When contacted for a detailed explanation, owner of the medical institution, Dr Ryan Anamayah insisted these cases are “normal” in the medical field, although he assured that nothing of this nature previously occurred at his hospital. (devinas@guyanatimesgy.com)