Johannesburg – A postmortem report has revealed that Miriam Singh, a 32-year-old expectant mother who tragically passed away shortly after being admitted to a health facility in Westbury, had a “serious underlying condition.”
Singh died at the Westbury Clinic Midwifery Obstetric Unit on Sunday, December 29, 2024.
The Gauteng Department of Health launched an inquiry into this widely reported incident and announced on Thursday, January 2, 2025, that it has “received the outcomes of the internal investigation, which underwent expert review by top specialists in obstetrics and gynecology as well as surgery from Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital.”
The department further explained: “The internal report concluded that the appropriate protocols were followed by the healthcare staff present.
“The postmortem report revealed that the patient had a serious underlying condition that significantly contributed to the rapid decline of her health shortly after her arrival at our facility.”
They also mentioned that, due to doctor-patient confidentiality, they are unable to provide more detailed information regarding the patient’s medical condition.
Earlier this week, on Tuesday, residents of Westbury gathered outside the Westbury Clinic Midwifery Obstetric Unit, seeking explanations from staff about the circumstances surrounding Singh’s death. Singh’s husband shared that he had accompanied her to the medical facility.
“The investigating officer from the South African Police Service presented the postmortem report to the Singh family earlier today,” stated the department.
“In light of these findings, the Gauteng Department of Health has expressed disappointment over the unsubstantiated allegations that were prematurely disseminated on public platforms by various parties, which were not founded on clinical facts but instead relied on hearsay.
“Such actions are not only irresponsible and unethical, but they also deepen the anguish of the grieving family, as they are compelled to confront misinformation about their loved one’s condition, complicating their acceptance of clinical realities.
“The Department extends its heartfelt condolences to the Singh family for their unexpected loss and will ensure continued counseling services and support are available as needed when the family feels ready.”
