The management of the ELWA Hospital has officially responded to the growing controversy surrounding an allegation of medical malpractice made by Jamesetta Kugmeh, a woman who claims she suffered severe complications following a cesarean section (C-section) at the facility.
During a press briefing, the administrator of the ELWA Hospital, Rev. James Freeman Garway, alongside senior hospital officials, expressed sympathy for Kugmeh and her family while calling for patience as investigations unfold.
In his statement, Garway acknowledged the public’s concerns and the widespread attention the case has received on social media.
However, he emphasized that due to patient confidentiality and an ongoing investigation by the Liberia Medical and Dental Council (LMDC), the hospital could not disclose specific details about the case at this time.
“We sympathize with the patient and her family during this challenging time and understand how she feels,” he said.
He disclosed, “We invite the family to meet with us for a conference to discuss these matters directly. We are actively conducting our own internal review and remain committed to fully cooperating with the LMDC investigation.”
He reassured the public that ELWA Hospital is taking the matter seriously but urged patience while regulatory bodies complete their inquiries.
Kugmeh has accused ELWA doctors of causing catastrophic injuries during her surgery, leaving her with kidney failure, liver damage, a collapsed urethra, and severe burns.
“I have undergone eight dialysis sessions, no urine yet. I need answers from ELWA. I want to die knowing why you killed me,” she wrote, calling for urgent intervention from medical authorities.
Her allegations have reignited debates about medical negligence in Liberia, with many citizens demanding accountability and stricter oversight of healthcare facilities.
The case has also drawn comparisons to previous incidents at other hospitals, including the St. Joseph’s Catholic Hospital and Hope for Women Clinic, where alleged medical errors have resulted in severe consequences for patients.
When asked whether the hospital had apologized to Kugmeh for the incident, Garway confirmed that ELWA had expressed concern for her condition and continued to pray for her recovery.
“We have expressed our concern and what she is going through. We pray with her. Everyone goes through difficult times, so we recognize that and share our concern. That’s why we are doing everything to investigate it. We still have her in our prayers,” he stated.
As ELWA Hospital and the LMDC continue their investigations, many are calling for broader reforms to ensure patient safety in Liberian hospitals.
“This isn’t just about one woman; it’s about the safety of every patient who walks into a hospital,” a concerned citizen commented. “We need answers, and we need change.”
