Investigations into fatal drug at hospital continuing, says PM

PRIME Minister James Marape says that the investigation into the medicine which allegedly caused the deaths of some patients undergoing surgery in a hospital is ongoing.
“Once a report is made available, than we will be able to say something,” he said.
Minister for Health and HIV/Aids Jelta Wong announced the coronial inquest three weeks ago after the medication in question, propofol, was recalled from all health facilities.
“In conjunction with this inquest, I have tasked the Department of Health to perform an independent investigation of the deaths, and audit the Port Moresby General Hospital,” he said.
“The investigation will review many aspects of the hospital including other similar deaths recently, clinical governance, and review of the pharmacopeia of propofol.
“It is critical that the investigation is not hampered by outside influence and allowed to run its course so we can ensure the impartial and factual information is made known, so that an amicable solution can be reached between all parties.”
In Parliament two weeks ago, Abau MP Sir Puka Temu expressed his concern over the lack of urgency in investigating how the 800 vials of propofal ordered by the Coronavirus (Covid-19) National Control Centre (NCC) and stored at the Area Medical Store was delivered to the Port Moresby General Hospital.
Sir Puka said out of the seven patients allegedly exposed to the medicine, four died, which was a serious matter.
Speaker Job Pomat said the Public Accounts Committee would not look into the four deaths.
“I agree that this is a serious matter concerning the welfare of the people and I am certain that deaths in the hospital would have been avoided,” he said.