Immediate, independent probe needed into tragic death of Ms. Michal Wallerson

Feb 26, 2025 Letters

Dear Editor

The Bartica United Youth Development Group (BUYDG) is respectfully urging the Government of Guyana to immediately facilitate an independent investigation into the tragic and sudden death of Ms. Michal Wallerson, BSN, RN, a dedicated nurse at thBartica Regional Hospital.

Ms. Wallerson tragically passed away on December 29, 2024, after reportedly being denied proper medical care following a 12e -hour night shift at the hospital. According to her family, she was unable to walk unaided and was discharged from the hospital’s emergency department without a clear diagnosis. Less than 24 hours later, Ms. Wallerson was found deceased at her home, leading to grave concerns about the circumstances surrounding her death.

The BUYDG is calling for an impartial and transparent investigation into this matter, which should involve an independent body of medical professionals, legal experts, and representatives from international organizations such as the United Nations (UN), the Organization of American States (OAS), and the World Health Organization (WHO). This investigation must be conducted to ensure full accountability and transparency, addressing any potential negligence or wrongdoing.

If the investigation finds that the actions or inactions of the state or its representatives contributed to Ms. Wallerson’s untimely death, we call for those responsible to be held accountable and placed before a court of law to face appropriate charges. We also request that the independent investigation body recommend measures to safeguard against future incidents of this nature and improve medical care and practices at Bartica Regional Hospital and other healthcare facilities across the country.

Should the allegations against the medical staff be proven true, the treatment of Ms. Wallerson raises serious concerns. How can the government’s medical administration treat its own staff in such a manner? This incident brings into question how ordinary patients are being treated at the facility. The matter must be urgently addressed. BUYDG calls for the investigative body to recommend necessary actions, including dismissal, demotion, charges, and court action, where applicable. We also urge the government to publicly release the rules and systems governing emergency cases at Bartica Regional Hospital, addressing the alleged failure of the doctor and staff to assist a sick person upon arrival at the hospital. Furthermore, how can a sick staff member be discharged while still not fully recovered? These critical issues must be addressed in the investigation.

Based on the findings of the investigation, BUYDG respectfully requests that the independent investigation body recommend compensation for Ms. Wallerson’s family, in alignment with international standards, to reflect the gravity of the case and the loss experienced by her family and the entire community.

Ms. Wallerson was a well-respected, disciplined, and professional member of the Bartica community and a valued member of the BUYDG. Her sudden passing is a significant loss to her family, friends, and the community at large, particularly in Region 7.

On behalf of the BUYDG, we extend our deepest condolences to Ms. Wallerson’s family, relatives, and friends, as well as to the residents of Bartica and Region 7. We also offer our heartfelt sympathy to her colleagues in the healthcare profession, who have lost a dedicated and caring individual. This call to action is not new. BUYDG has long advocated for the betterment of public health and justice in our region. We are committed to ensuring that this matter is addressed fairly and swiftly.

We trust that the Minister of Health and the Government of Guyana will act swiftly to initiate this independent investigation and address the concerns raised by Ms. Wallerson’s family, which is supported by the BUYDG.

Regards

The Bartica United Youth Development Group

(Immediate, independent probe needed into tragic death of Ms. Michal Wallerson)

(Immediate, independent probe)

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Government of Guyana, medical care, Organization of American States, United Nations

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Immediate, independent probe needed into tragic death of Ms. Michal Wallerson

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