MADINAH, 28 August 2006 — Madinah Governor Prince Abdul Aziz ibn Majed has ordered the closure of the Safa Al-Madinah Hospital that was at the center of controversy when a mother of four died after being given the wrong blood type following a routine Cesarean Section. The prince made the decision following a visit to the hospital on Saturday.
Najat Balahmar died after she was given the wrong blood in a routine blood transfusion. In a recent report published by the Ministry of Health Affairs, the hospital was found guilty of negligence. Prince Abdul Aziz ordered the closure of the maternity section, operating theater and the hospital’s laboratory — vital departments without which the hospital cannot operate.
Prince Abdul Aziz arrived at the hospital in his private car and was greeted by Dr. Abdul Rahman Al-Saggaf, the hospital manager, and Dr. Hussein Al-Raddadi, the executive manager. The prince insisted on disciplining those responsible saying that the lives of patients are not toys to be played with, Al-Watan reported.
The surprise visit had a huge impact on the local populace. People gathered outside the hospital in large numbers. Staff at the hospital tried to prevent journalists and photographers from entering the building. The family of Najat also arrived at the hospital and her older brother thanked the prince for his concern saying that the visit was a big step in assuaging their feelings. “It is the biggest condolence the family could possibly receive,” they said.
Following the visit, a special committee also arrived at the hospital to ensure that the specified departments were closed down.
The Health Affairs Ministry in Madinah blamed the sponsor of the runaway laboratory technician. “The sponsor would be held accountable for the expatriate’s action,” it said.
