Staff at Flinders Medical Centre (FMC) reported an alarming level of stress to doctors union chief Bernadette Mulholland during a workplace safety inspection. The emergency department was overwhelmed, with patients facing extensive wait times for beds. Mulholland was informed of very sick patients stuck in the waiting room, unable to be admitted.
Mulholland's report highlighted patients waiting hours for beds, including a 46-hour wait and significant delays for mental health patients. One critical situation involved three category two patients, requiring immediate treatment, competing for a single available bed. The staff described the situation as "stressful and impossible."
The FMC, the largest hospital in the southern suburbs, experiences prolonged ambulance offload times, known as "ramping," compared to other Adelaide hospitals. Ambulance ramping hours increased significantly in March. A serious incident involved a category two patient who went into cardiac arrest while on the ramp, after a request for immediate assessment in the ED was not followed. At the time, the ED was in Code Yellow, indicating extreme pressure.
The Southern Adelaide Local Health Network acknowledged the high demand at the FMC ED and stated that patients are prioritized based on clinical need. The health network is collaborating with the doctors union and SafeWork SA.
The issue of ambulance ramping has become a political concern. The Australian Medical Association SA emphasizes that the long wait times are unacceptable for patients and healthcare workers.
The state government is investing in the FMC and Noarlunga Hospital to increase capacity. The Health Minister has also pointed to problems with the federal aged care system, with many patients awaiting placement. With winter approaching and the additional hospital capacity still some time away, the pressure on doctors at the FMC is expected to remain high. The opposition has also expressed concerns about the state of the health system.
8 Comments
The Truth
Long wait times are a serious concern, but it's good to see that they are finally being addressed publicly.
Answer
It’s important for people to understand that emergency departments are under immense pressure.
The Truth
Acknowledge the hard work of the medical staff—the system may be strained, but they are doing their best!
Answer
The collaboration between the health network and the doctors union is a step in the right direction.
Rotfront
It's great to see that the issues in our healthcare system are being recognized. Change is needed!
Leonardo
The government’s investment in FMC is a positive move. Let's hope it leads to better patient care soon!
Michelangelo
Thank you to the healthcare workers for their dedication during these challenging times. They need our support!
Raphael
Investments in hospitals may take time to show results, but it's essential for long-term change in healthcare.