In 2022, two Inuit patients staying at the Ullivik health centre in Dorval, Quebec, were struck and killed on nearby highways within a 24-hour span. One of the women, Mary-Jane Tulugak, 22, was in a wheelchair after surgery and had been barred entry to the centre’s living quarters due to being intoxicated. Coroner Éric Lépine conducted an examination into Tulugak’s death and issued recommendations for the health centre to review its security protocols. Despite protocols stating that a supervisor should have been informed about Tulugak’s attempted entry, the coroner found that this did not happen as the supervisor was on break at the time.
As a result of the deaths of the two Inuit patients, Coroner Lépine recommended that the Ullivik health centre in Dorval, Quebec, review its security measures. Following the tragic incidents, many of Lépine’s recommendations have already been implemented by the health centre to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. It is essential for healthcare facilities to ensure the safety and security of their patients, especially those who may be vulnerable due to physical or mental health conditions. By reviewing and updating security protocols, the Ullivik health centre can help prevent similar tragedies from happening in the future.
The Ullivik health centre is overseen by the health board in Nunavik, the northern Quebec territory where the two women lived. Both Mary-Jane Tulugak and Nellie Niviaxie had traveled to Montreal for medical treatment and were staying at the health centre during their visit. Tulugak’s tragic death on Highway 520, followed by Niviaxie’s death less than 24 hours later on Highway 20, highlights the importance of ensuring the safety and well-being of patients who are receiving medical care away from their home communities.
Coroner Éric Lépine’s recommendations serve as a reminder of the need for healthcare facilities to prioritize the safety of their patients, particularly those who may be vulnerable due to their health conditions. By reviewing and updating security measures, the Ullivik health centre can help prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future and ensure that all patients receive the care and protection they need during their stay at the facility. It is crucial for healthcare providers to create a safe and secure environment for their patients, especially those who may require additional support or assistance.
The tragic deaths of Mary-Jane Tulugak and Nellie Niviaxie underscore the importance of reviewing and updating security measures at healthcare facilities to prevent similar incidents in the future. By implementing Coroner Lépine’s recommendations, the Ullivik health centre can enhance its security protocols and ensure the safety of its patients, particularly those who may be vulnerable or at risk. Healthcare providers have a responsibility to protect and care for their patients, and by taking steps to improve security measures, the Ullivik health centre can help prevent future tragedies and ensure the well-being of all individuals under its care.
In light of the deaths of Mary-Jane Tulugak and Nellie Niviaxie, Coroner Éric Lépine’s recommendations for the Ullivik health centre to review its security measures are crucial in preventing similar incidents from occurring in the future. The tragic deaths of the two women highlight the need for healthcare facilities to prioritize the safety and well-being of their patients, particularly those who may be vulnerable due to their health conditions. By implementing and updating security protocols, the Ullivik health centre can create a safer environment for all patients and ensure that they receive the care and protection they need during their time at the facility.