Damning claims from the Member for Burnett about conditions at Bundaberg Hospital.
Stephen Bennett says it’s been a “horror weekend” following reports of no food and no beds.
“It’s clear this hospital is in crisis mode. We need urgent action before it’s too late,” he says.
“I’ve received frightening calls over the last few days; reports of patients queuing in wheelchairs due to there being no beds, and reports of the hospital running out of food.
“This is unacceptable. It is heartbreaking to hear desperate screams and pleas for help.
“Over recent months I’ve asked multiple questions of the health minister about the declining service and level of care, but it’s clear they aren’t getting through.
“More and more calls, meetings, and presentations are being made to my office from shocked patients and families who are anxious for answers.
“We’re also hearing allegations that complaints are being covered up to avoid genuine investigations.”
Wide Bay Hospital and Health Service is slamming the claims saying comments about being in crisis mode are inaccurate.
“The implication that we would ignore or cover up any complaints in an attempt to avoid investigations is also untrue and unfounded,” a spokesperson says.
“Bundaberg Hospital did experience higher than usual emergency presentations over the weekend and was escalated to Tier 3 bed capacity status as a result. This is a routine response when we have high patient presentations and is in line with statewide capacity response plans.
“We managed the increase in demand by following clear escalation plans, including mobilising additional staff and transferring and discharging inpatients where safe to do so.
“Despite the increase in patient presentations, at no time did Bundaberg Hospital run out of food.”
