Sönmez: Death of 20-Day-Old Infant Cannot Be Blamed Solely on Five Healthcare Workers

Sönmez stated that this incident is not merely the result of a few nurses’ errors but is instead a chain of negligence across the healthcare system. Speaking on Kıbrıs Postası TV's "Gündem" program hosted by Ulaş Barış, she expressed that the incident, which also affected the health of six other infants, points to a systemic problem, not just isolated faults among five healthcare workers.

"24 Years Fighting for a Patients' Rights Law"

Sönmez highlighted that the Alzheimer Association was founded in 2002 with the aim of enacting a Patients' Rights Law, a goal that has been pursued for 24 years through numerous changes in government and health ministers. Although the draft law resurfaced during Filiz Besim's tenure, it was shelved. Sönmez emphasized the necessity of this law for a patient-centered healthcare approach, noting successful implementations in countries like Australia and Portugal.

Patient Support App Launched

Due to budget constraints, they could not expand patient support units across hospitals as intended, so they developed a free mobile application in Turkish and English. This app provides information on healthcare facilities in northern Cyprus and allows patients to report rights violations instantly. Privacy breaches, lack of information, and issues in scheduling appointments are the most common complaints.

"Learning of Mistreatment to Infants is Disturbing"

Regarding the accidental administration of ethyl alcohol to infants in the neonatal unit, Sönmez expressed alarm, stating, “Discovering such a misstep in a state hospital is traumatic for families. Families should have been informed immediately following the incident.”

"Everyone Involved in the System Must Be Accountable"

Sönmez stressed that having only four nurses for 24 infants exacerbates the negligence and that this is the moment to discuss the patients' rights law. “Blaming only healthcare workers won’t resolve these issues; the entire system needs reform. Accountability must be demanded at all levels to ensure adherence to quality standards.”