PHA launches probe into ‘Sparky’ death

The Public Hospitals Authority has launched an investigation into the death of Gene “Sparky” Fountain, 75, following concerns raised in a video he recorded and shared before his death documenting his lengthy wait for medical attention at Princess Margaret Hospital.

Minister of Health Dr Michael Darville said he had viewed the video and described it as distressing, stressing that claims about inadequate care at the hospital’s Accident and Emergency Department must be thoroughly investigated.

“It needs to be investigated and we should have a report as it relates to that,” Darville said.

“Claims of this nature need to be thoroughly investigated. We are supposed to provide a service that is adequate at Accident and Emergency.”

Fountain died last week. The circumstances surrounding his experience have raised questions about the delivery of emergency medical services and the level of care patients receive at the country’s principal public hospital.

Fountain was a familiar voice on local radio talk shows, where he regularly called in to share his views and opinions on issues affecting the country, including the state of politics.