Tragic Transfusion Error Leads to Calls for Healthcare Reforms
In a somber turn of events, 56-year-old Ayla Dalgalan, a retired teacher from Nicosia, has succumbed to complications following a blood transfusion mishap. The Turkish Cypriot police reported her death after a 12-day battle in the intensive care unit of the Near East hospital. The hospital later disclosed that Dalgalan had been inadvertently administered the incorrect blood type during a transfusion at the Thalassaemia Centre of Dr Burhan Nalbantoglu hospital in northern Nicosia.
The Cyprus Turkish Teachers’ Union (Ktos) has expressed deep concern over what they describe as “a suspicious situation which cost a person’s life,” placing their trust in the Cyprus Turkish Medical Association (KTTB) to conduct a thorough investigation. Amidst the grief, Dalgalan’s family has announced their intention to pursue legal action, seeking accountability for the medical error that led to their loss.
The Universal Patient Rights Association (EHHD) has stepped forward, offering unwavering support to the family. They highlight that Dalgalan’s death is not merely the result of an individual’s oversight but rather indicative of systemic issues within the public health services. The EHHD warns that as economic challenges escalate, more individuals are relying on public healthcare, which has not seen proportional improvements in infrastructure and staffing.
Concerns have been raised regarding the absence of robust legislation safeguarding patient rights. The EHHD emphasizes that without such protections and a commitment to justice, public trust in healthcare will continue to erode. They suggest looking towards the European charter of patients’ rights as a potential model for local legislation. This charter encompasses 14 fundamental rights, including access to healthcare, informed consent, and patient safety, aiming to instill confidence in medical services.
The tragic incident of this transfusion error has sparked a broader dialogue on healthcare reform. Advocates are calling for immediate action to prevent future tragedies and to ensure that patient welfare remains at the forefront of healthcare delivery.
