Jasher probe extended

Radhica De Silva 

Health Minister Dr Lackram Bodoe has announced that the independent expert panel reviewing the death of six-year-old Jasher Francois has been granted a one-week extension to complete its report.

Responding to questions from Guardian Media, Dr Bodoe said the revised submission date is now August 25.

He explained that the extra time is needed to ensure the probe is comprehensive.

“This extension will allow the panel to conduct a more thorough and holistic examination of all aspects of care received,” he said.

The Minister added that the review will include “a detailed review of the patient’s notes at the institutions under the South-West Regional Health Authority where care was provided,” along with “face-to-face interviews with medical and support staff who interacted with Jasher and his family.”

Dr Bodoe confirmed that the panel also intends to meet directly with the Francois family following the child’s recent burial. “Engagement with the Francois family, following Jasher’s recent burial, to better understand their direct experiences and perspectives,” he said.

Extending sympathy to the family, Dr Bodoe stated, “The Ministry of Health once again extends its deepest condolences. The Ministry remains firmly committed to transparency and accountability in this matter and assures the public that the review process is being undertaken with the highest degree of diligence and care.”

He said further updates will be provided as the review progresses.

Jasher, a Standard One pupil, died on August 7 after being taken to the San Fernando Teaching Hospital. He had been admitted for a dry cough. The first autopsy found he died from aspiration pneumonitis, likely triggered by viral pneumonia. A second autopsy commissioned by his family also listed aspiration pneumonitis, along with pleural petechiae, cyanosis of the extremities, marked cerebral oedema, and acute renal injury.

Jasher’s funeral took place on Saturday at Baptist Ambassadors Church, St John’s Village, San Fernando.

The four-member independent panel includes Consultant Paediatrician Dr Camanee Lutchman, registered nurse and quality assurance specialist Claudine Sheppard, former NWRHA CEO Dr Elizabeth Persad, and paediatric intensive care specialist and attorney Denelle Singh.

The committee’s mandate is to determine whether the proper standard of care, clinical judgment, and professional responsibilities were upheld.