K.H.M.H. C.E.O. Gives Update on Case of Lucia Martinez

Adrian Coye

Most Belizeans, or at least those who watch the news, are likely family with the case of Lucia Martinez. Eighteen year old Martinez had her first child at the K.H.M.H. recently, and claims that a retaining swab was left inside her during the birth. She developed an infection which allegedly almost killed her, and following her very alarming complaints, the K.H.M.H. has been investigating the matter. The last time we spoke to K.H.M.H. C.E.O., Doctor Adrian Coye, he informed us that the investigation was complete, but he preferred to speak to Martinez first before making those finding public. Today, Coye told News Five that when the K.H.M.H. met with Lucia Martinez, there was an attorney present so he has to be very careful about what he says at this point.

Adrian Coye, C.E.O., K.H.M.H.

“This may have the potential to be a legal case, so I wouldn’t necessarily discuss further in that I can only say we met her, we were able to address a lot of the concerns that they have, and we have given her the opportunity to be treated by our specialist so that whatever other concerns arise, we can help. In terms of the investigation we were able to see all our steps, our processes and we are convinced that we did not deviate from best practice, but then the only question is at what point could this event happen. Like I say if I were to say more, then if there is a legal thing to come then I would not want to be quoted as saying anything else.”

Reporter

“In that meeting was there any talk of a settlement, or hasn’t it reached to that point yet?”

Dr. Adrian Coye

“No there was no talk of a settlement. Let us understand that this young lady had an unfortunate event. If we are related to that we will accept liability. But what is missing from all this is there’s the flurry of attention as to that kind of event versus her wellbeing, and we have been focusing on her wellbeing and the wellbeing of her baby.”

Martinez had told the media that medical personnel informed her that she would not be able to have another child for a period of three years. But Coye says that the advice given to her is illogical, and makes no sense.