‘We’re talking about people’s lives’: Boy’s death sparks calls for independent hospital probe

An inquiry will focus on at least three cases at a Riverland hospital, amid claims of a “pattern of circumstance” that includes treating a boy with flu before he died.

A clinical review headed by an “external doctor” will be launched into cases at a Riverland hospital amid claims of a “pattern of circumstance” that includes treating a boy with flu before he died.

The State Coroner is investigating why Riverland General Hospital ruled the six-year-old boy was well enough to return to his Berri home with influenza days before his death.

But after two families criticised their children’s care at the hospital, Health Minister Chris Picton, announced a clinical review “involving an external doctor to ensure independence”.

Health Minister Chris Picton has announced a clinical review “involving an external doctor to ensure independence” Picture: NCA NewsWire / Brenton Edwards

The Opposition has called for wider “independent” inquiry into hospital processes.

While the clinician has yet to be appointed, they will be based outside Riverland Mallee Coorong Local Health Network, officials said.

While the inquiry will focus on at least three cases, including the boy’s flu death and another two allegations of poor care, other hospital process will also be examined “if required”, they said.

Two mothers have publicly criticised “dismissive” medical treatment at the Berri facility, which is considered the public Riverland’s main hospital.

SA Health has defended the standard of the hospital’s care and resourcing after an initial internal review left medical chiefs “confident” appropriate treatment occurred.

Expressing “deepest sympathies” to the boy’s family and community for the “heartbreaking loss”, Mr Picton said any concerns raised about a hospital standard of care must be properly investigated.

“I am assured that is happening in relation to cases raised to The Advertiser,” he said.

“I have discussed the concerns raised with the (LHN) board chair Dr Peter Joyner.

“(He) has assured me that the cases raised will be properly investigated, including involving an external doctor to ensure independence, with a fully open process with families.”

He said he would ensure network chiefs provide full co-operation to State Coroner David Whittle.

Mr Whittle will decide if it is necessary to hold a public inquest to determine the cause and circumstances of a death.

Liberal MP for Chaffey Tim Whetstone called for a “full independent inquiry” to investigate. Picture Emma Brasier

But Liberal MP for Chaffey Tim Whetstone, who represents the Riverland, called for a “full independent inquiry” to investigate what he said appeared to be a “pattern of circumstance”.

“We’re talking about people’s lives here,” he said.

“This is not the first time there’s been issues with early release that’s ended badly. I’m not a medico so I am not telling them how to suck eggs.

“But clearly there needs to be change in the hospital’s processes with patients, and children being released early and they’re concerns being dismissed.”

He said the tragic death will have a ripple effect right across greater Riverland.