Supervisor suspended, SERHA orders probe into disposal of neonates at KPH morgue

Chairman of the South East Regional Health Authority (SERHA), Philip Armstrong, has ordered an immediate investigation into the circumstances under which the bodies of two neonates that were being stored at the Kingston Public Hospital (KPH) morgue were improperly disposed of.

Armstrong says the protocol dictates that bodies being stored at the morgue should only be removed after a burial order and release form have been issued.

“However, preliminary investigations have revealed that there was a breach in this protocol,” he said in a statement today.

As a result, the SERHA board chairman said the supervisor for the morgue department has been sent on leave with immediate effect until the investigations are completed.

Further, he said the management of the hospital has also been instructed to review the procedures with respect to the storage and disposal of bodies in order to ensure appropriate measures are in place to prevent any further re-occurrence.

Armstrong said the police have been notified of the incident and the hospital has been directed to give its full cooperation with all investigations.

“In keeping with crucial principles of accountability and transparency which currently govern the operations of SERHA, the findings will be made public and any further necessary actions will be taken following the conclusion of the investigations,” he said.

Armstrong said the hospital has been directed to remain in touch with family members “in relation to this sensitive issue.”

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