An independent investigation will be launched into the maternity services at the Royal Hobart Hospital following claims that a baby died due to understaffing.
The investigation was ordered by Health Minister Guy Barnett after the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) and current and former staff raised concerns about the issue earlier this week.
The Department of Health initially said it was ‘unable to corroborate’ the union’s claims after reviewing staff rosters.
Responding to growing concern over conditions on the ward, Minister Barnett says the independent probe will examine issues including safe rostering practices and patient safety in the hospital’s maternity ward.
“The claims made by nurses and midwives through the ANMF and the media are very serious,” he said.
“While the Department has undertaken an initial review of rosters and has not uncovered any issues, I will instruct a further independent examination.”
“I can assure the community that we will do everything possible to ensure Tasmanian mothers and babies are getting the healthcare they expect and deserve.”
The ANMF has previously raised concerns about understaffing and its impact on patient care, with one midwife reportedly responsible for up to 25 patients a day.
The ANMF today welcomed the investigation.
“Many women have come forward to corroborate these issues from their own experiences – including delays in inductions – and further advocacy has occurred on behalf of members,” ANMF Tasmanian Branch Secretary Emily Shepherd said.
“The ANMF has had ongoing discussions with the Minister with respect to the disconnect between our members’ experience and the response from Department Deputy Secretary, Brendan Docherty.
“The ANMF requested an independent investigation to be carried out to fully explore and make recommendations for implementation to address the staffing and safety concerns. We welcome the Minister’s commitment to do this, as well as to work with the ANMF on the terms of reference.”
The investigation will be led by an ‘appropriate independent person’ following further consultation with the ANMF.
Minister Barnett did not comment on his level of responsibility for dysfunctionality at the hospital.
Labor welcomed the investigation but laid the blame on health system issues squarely with the Liberal Party.
“How can Tasmania build the health system it needs, when the Government ensures the workforce is under-staffed, underpaid, and under-resourced?” asked Shadow Minister for Health Ella Haddad rhetorically.
“We are calling on the government to act swiftly on the findings of this investigation, but also to urgently address their health department’s existing staffing crisis. The government needs to take concerns raised by workers and unions seriously and stop dismissing them when they are brought forward.”
