Arabic version: وزير صحة نيو ساوث ويلز يدافع عن نفسه ضد مزاعم الإهمال بعد المراجعة

New South Wales Health Minister Ryan Park has dismissed allegations of negligence following a snap review that uncovered significant maintenance issues across the state’s hospitals. The review was prompted by a fungal infection cluster at the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital (RPA) linked to two deaths.

According to ABC News, the review identified 112 non-routine maintenance issues in the past year, with 74 resolved, 32 being rectified, and six that were being looked at more closely. This scrutiny comes in the wake of a serious incident last September when a ceiling panel at Orange Hospital fell on a doctor, raising alarms about safety protocols.

During a budget estimates hearing, Park revealed that the fungal infection cluster was detected by clinicians in October, although his office was only informed on Christmas Eve. He stated that the situation was managed appropriately and that both patients and staff were kept informed as the issues developed.

Critics, including Member of the Legislative Council Susan Carter, have questioned the timing of the responses, suggesting that actions were taken reactively rather than proactively. Carter emphasized the duty of care owed to patients, prompting inquiries into the potential legal liabilities for negligence.

Additional maintenance concerns were highlighted, including unresolved mould issues in operating theatres and the Intensive Care Unit at Tamworth Hospital, which have persisted since 2022. Park acknowledged the challenges in managing these issues while maintaining hospital operations, asserting that efforts are being made to rectify the problems swiftly.