Announce the findings of the Committee on baby Lai Yok Shan

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw calls on the Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Chua Soi Lek to announce the findings of the Committee of Enquiry on the newborn Lai Yok Shan, including measures on Yok Shan and action on the doctor involved.

Dr Tan took part in the debate on the Supplementary Supply Bill in Parliament on 4 September, 2007.

Five-week-old Lai Yok Shan lost her left forearm on 2 September, 2007, at Tengku Ampuan Rahimah, Klang. The gangrenous left forearm was given to her parents Lai Kian Khee and Nut Tuemthony.

The baby was born on 23 July, 2007, two months premature. It had blood infection and was given an antibiotic, which was said to be Vancomycin. But, the houseman, newly-qualified doctor under supervision, had difficulty in finding a vein on the premature baby's arm. The needle went to the wrong place, complicated by an infection and gangrene (dead tissue).

According to media report, the Health Ministry acknowledged that a mistake had been made and a special committee was set up to probe the incident. Dr Chua Soi Lek said findings showed that there were weaknesses in the treatment procedure. The role of the specialist and the houseman must be reviewed.

It is time for the minister to reveal the findings of the committee report, so that the parents and the public know what actually happened.

Although hospitals such as the above-stated attain ISO 9001 standard, it does not mean that the service or the delivery system goes up. The minister must pay attention to this.

The attitude of hospitals such as the above-mentioned must be people-friendly.

Datuk Seri Chua must review the facilities in hospitals including the Klang Hospital. Is is the result of lack of fund and personnel that affect the maintenance of these hospitals. I have been told that ants can be seen in the intensive unit. Is it true?

While the case is being referred to the Attorney-General, the ministry must tell Yok Shan's parents the steps to be taken such as ex-gratia payment, life-long free medical treatment, prosthesis and limb transplant.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw