After a review of the reports submitted to the Ministry of Health and Wellness with regard to the case of 17-year old Jalisa McGowan, who died after being denied medical assistance at the University Hospital of the West Indies (UHWI) while suffering from an asthma attack, the ministry is calling for improved patient flow at the UHWI.

In a statement released by the ministry on Wednesday (April 14), it stated that a directive has been given to the University Hospital of the West Indies, to provide a more detailed review of McGowan’s case and to implement corrective actions.

According to the statement, the directive was given following reports submitted to the ministry from the Andrews Memorial Hospital and the UHWI.

The ministry stated that “the review of the reports has shown that there is a need for interventions to improve patient flow and to ensure prompt recognition and treatment of patients with severe manifestations of illnesses”.

Having had discussions with the board of management, the executive management and the accident and emergency department of the hospital, Health Minister Dr Christopher Tufton has instructed the hospital board to appoint an independent panel to lead a further review of the case and the implementation of corrective actions related to patient flow and treatment.