Independent investigation into Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service’s operations delayed again

The release of a critical report into the healthcare of First Nations peoples living in remote Far North communities has been delayed for a third time by investigators.

Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service’s chair Renee Williams speaks with Queensland Health Minister Shannon Fentiman in Cairns on Tuesday, April 23, 2024. Picture: Brendan Radke

The release of a critical report into the healthcare of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders living in remote Far North communities has been delayed for a third time by investigators.

But Health Minister Shannon Fentiman has defended the lag, arguing the external clinicians are “taking their time to get it right”.

A review into the administration, management and treatment of First Nations peoples by Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service (TCHHS) was launched last August, led by Professor Cindy Shannon AM.

The first part of the report, sparked by a toddler’s death in 2023 and the impassioned criticism of health services from community leaders, was meant to be released this month.

But Prof Shannon said on Queensland Health’s website the report will now be finalised in May.

“The investigators have received a high volume of information and evidence which has taken considerable time to assess and analyse,” she said.

“As a result of these circumstances, it has been necessary to obtain an additional extension of time from the Director-General.”

Ms Fentiman said she was happy to grant the investigators additional time in order to finalise the first part of the report.

“We have very experienced clinicians doing this investigation,” she said.

“They are meeting with patients and clinicians and taking their time to get it right. I trust the clinicians, who are external to TCHHS.

“When they say to me they want more time … we’re going to give it to them and I look forward to reading the report.”

An investigation into Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service is currently reviewing the administration, management and treatment of First Nations peoples across the region.

Earlier this year, TCHHS chief executive, Rex O’Rourke, said restoring “trust and confidence” within remote Indigenous communities and amongst health workers was critical to improving health in Cape York and the Torres Strait.

“I have confidence that our service has robust clinical governance and systems,” Mr O’Rourke said.

“But there are opportunities to improve and there always will be. Where we have an opportunity to improve is listening, talking and engaging with the community.

“You’ve got to win back the trust and confidence.”

A date on when the second part of the report will be delivered has yet to be finalised.

Originally published as Independent investigation into Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service’s operations delayed again