The Liberia Medical and Dental Council (LMDC), in collaboration with the Montserrado County Health Team, has forwarded Melvina Leakpei, a resident of Thinker Village, to the Liberia National Police for criminal investigation following a tragic maternal and neonatal death. The case involves the death of 27-year-old Patience Cowe and her unborn child, allegedly resulting from obstructed labor caused by fetal macrosomia. Leakpei is accused of providing unauthorized delivery services despite not holding a valid nursing license.
The investigation began after the LMDC received a formal complaint from Dr. Jewel Tarpeh Kollie, the County Health Officer of Montserrado. The complaint detailed claims that Leakpei, who purportedly posed as a nurse, had been assisting in deliveries at her home without proper certification. When asked to provide proof of her qualifications, Leakpei claimed her nursing license had been lost in water since 2011.
According to nursing notes provided by Leakpei, Patience Cowe visited her home on three occasions in March 2023. The first visit on March 20th was for discomfort and back pain, but Cowe was not in labor. During a subsequent visit on March 22nd, Cowe developed a high fever and chills, prompting Leakpei to recommend a cold water bath. After conducting a Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT), malaria was confirmed, and treatment was administered.
On March 24th, Cowe returned to Leakpei’s home at 9:30 AM, reporting severe stomach and back pain. Leakpei allegedly conducted a medical examination, confirming that Cowe was fully dilated. Despite efforts to assist in the delivery between 3:30 PM and 4:00 PM, complications arose due to the size of the baby, leading to obstructed labor. The patient was eventually transported to the 14 Military Hospital in Margibi County, but both mother and child were pronounced dead.
In response to the incident, the LMDC, with support from the Montserrado County Health Team, has taken decisive action by referring Leakpei to the Liberia National Police for further investigation into potential criminal wrongdoing. The LMDC commended Dr. Kollie and her team for their swift response in addressing the situation and for their ongoing efforts to combat medical malpractice in Liberia.
The LMDC reiterated its commitment to eradicating illegal medical practices, commonly referred to as “quackery,” and emphasized the importance of ensuring patient safety across the nation. Health authorities are urging expectant mothers to seek care only from certified health professionals and registered medical institutions to prevent similar tragedies.
The LMDC has also called on the public to report any suspected illegal medical practices to the appropriate authorities to safeguard the health and lives of Liberians. The Ministry of Health, the Liberia National Red Cross Society, the World Health Organization, and other relevant stakeholders continue to support efforts aimed at improving healthcare standards and eliminating fraudulent practices in Liberia’s healthcare system.
