BY Ruwani Fonseka

A patient who was admitted at the Anuradhapura base hospital has died, following the administration of an anesthesia drug, claims family members of the deceased.

Speaking to The Morning today (17), the daughter of the deceased, Nethu (surname withheld for privacy) claims that her mother, aged 58 years, was physically well upon admission.

"My mother had a lump in her armpit and after speaking to a doctor we had channelled privately, we admitted my mother to the hospital to get the minor procedure done. We were told that it wouldn't take long and that she would regain consciousness again. But my mother never regained consciousness and had passed away. We were only informed about 1 and a half hours after the drug was administered," said Nethu.

Yesterday, President of the Association of Health Professionals, Ravi Kumudesh alleged that investigations were not properly carried out on sudden deaths in hospitals and the Government must initiate an inquiry on this particular death as well.

"We have seen quite a few deaths recent past, some of which are due to substandard drugs. This family in Anuradhapura have lost their mother. Ofcourse, they are unable to take legal action or complaint formally because they don't have the means financially. We call upon the Government of Sri Lanka and the Ministry of Health to look into this matter and serve some justice and closure for the family," said Kumudesh.

Meanwhile, The Morning contacted Minister of Health Keheliya Rambukwella, who stated that no complaints have been made to either the Ministry of Health or the Anuradhapura base hospital as yet.

"If the family has such allegations, they can easily lodge a complaint and let the officials investigate. The family has not taken any steps to lodge a complaint and take action. Based on Kumudesh's story to the media, I personally spoke to the hospital Director General, and he says nothing of that sort happened," said Minister Rambukwella.

He further noted that he has requested the Anuradhapura base hospital for a report on the deceased person.