National

PMH to Address Blood Shortage After Patient’s Death

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – The recent death of a wife and mother of three prompting health officials to look at ways to address issues at Princess Margaret Hospital.

Published

3 years ago

January 23, 2023

Berthony McDermott

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – The recent death of a wife and mother of three prompting health officials to look at ways to address issues at Princess Margaret Hospital.

Public Hospitals Authority Managing Director Dr. Aubynette Rolle is also coming to the hospital’s defense.

In the wake of outrage on social media, Dr. Rolle says PHA is looking at ways to deal with the lack of blood at blood banks across the country, and how to improve services at the public hospital.

When it comes to the supply of blood on hand, Dr. Rolle says the trouble of finding a match sometimes causes a delay.

Kenise Darville was admitted to hospital on January 2, 2023, and was told days later that she needed family and friends to donate blood – a request health officials say isn’t out of the ordinary.

Darville’s death sparked public outrage as residents took to social media to express their displeasure, with many residents warning others not to go to PMH for care.

Dr. Rolle says she’s reached out to Kenise’s husband, Jerad Darville and is awaiting his call.

She’s also stressing there is a critical need for blood. Amid staffing shortages, Health and Wellness Minister Dr. Michael Darville says government is trying to fill the gaps.