Stephen Bennett calls for whistleblowers in Bundaberg Hospital investigation

Burnett MP Stephen Bennett says whistleblowers are the heroes of their communities, and he wants them to step up during a Qld Health investigation into the Bundaberg Hospital. Read the latest.

Whistleblowers and witnesses have been urged to come forward with an investigation into medication management and administration at the Bundaberg Hospital well underway.

An Independent Investigation and Clinical Review will see the review team visit Bundaberg this month for face-to-face talks.

Burnett MP Stephen Bennett put out the call to action in a statement on Wednesday.

“It takes great strength to stand up and demand change,” he said.

“I would like to thank everyone who has already reported their stories to the clinical governance hotline.

“I’d like to encourage anyone who is comfortable to reach out and share their experiences with the investigators.

“Without your knowledge and information, we can’t begin to make cultural, practical, and sensible change within our failing health system.

Whistleblowers and witnesses have been urged to come forward with an investigation into medication management and administration at the Bundaberg Hospital well underway.

“It’s people like Beryl Crosby who are the real unsung heroes of our community, making it a better place for all of us.”

Patient Advocate Beryl Crosby has also urged hospital staff to come forward.

“I’m looking forward to meeting with the investigators and I would like to encourage any staff who have concerns to speak up,” she said.

“You can meet them in person later this month or provide your feedback anonymously through the clinical governance hotline on 4184 1824.

“If you still feel concerned, you can contact me anonymously and I can give feedback to the reviewers.

“For any patients or family members, if you have concerns about the s4 or s8 drug use that you believe has caused harm or death, please raise this on the above number, or email feedback to [e-mail].

“Alternatively, you can reach out and I will help.

“It’s important that everyone speaks up now while the review is happening.

“There are many hardworking and wonderful staff at the hospital who are passionate about patient safety, I know they also would want this investigated.”

Stunning claims about the hospital were made when Ms Crosby wrote a letter to Mr Bennett‘s office detailing her concerns around medication use and conduct of staff.

It was alleged that large doses of drugs were being given to dementia patients so that “nurses would have an easier shift”.

The health service told the public on June 29, 2022 four staff had been dealt with in relation to two separate incidents at the hospital.

One Bundaberg Hospital nurse was sacked, and three others were disciplined.

Last month, Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk visited Bundaberg to pledge an investigation into the hospital.