Tan Tock Seng Hospital patient jumps to her death

A 27-year-old woman died today in an apparent suicide after falling from the sixth floor of a hospital linked to Singapore’s recent coronavirus outbreak.

The unidentified woman was at Tan Tock Seng Hospital with her family for outpatient care when she climbed over a railing and fell seven stories to the Basement 2 level, according to a hospital surveillance camera. She was taken to the emergency unit where she died of her injuries, the hospital said, adding that it was cooperating with a police investigation. 

“We are saddened that a 27-year-old outpatient had passed on at our hospital today. She was on follow-up care at our clinic and had attended a clinic appointment this morning accompanied by her family,” it said in a statement. Her body was found in the escalator lobby. 

Tan Tock Seng Hospital accounts for Singapore’s biggest cluster of coronavirus infections, with more than 40 cases reported there. It has stopped admitting new patients and barred visitors from wards in a bid for containment. Health workers at the hospital have reported being targets for discrimination by members of the public, including reports of landlords evicting them on short notice. 

Health Minister Gan Kim Yong said in parliament yesterday that the ministry was working to provide hotels for affected workers. 

“I know this comes from a small minority of Singaporeans. The great majority is thankful for the sacrifices and contributions of our healthcare workers, including from Tan Tock Seng Hospital,” he said.

Anyone struggling with thoughts of suicide is encouraged to call the Samaritans of Singapore 24-hour hotline at 1-800-221-4444 for counseling.

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