Question - Canberra Hospital

Question

Number
560
Subject
Canberra Hospital
(Patient treatment)
Asked by
Cain, Peter
Directed to
Minister for Health
Question asked on
03 July 2025
Answer due on
05 October 2025
Question asked
  1. Has Canberra Health Services received any formal complaints in the past five years relating to patient treatment within Canberra Hospital; if so, how many complaints were received.
  2. What formal protocols are in place to guide hospital staff in responding to patient dignity concerns, and how is adherence to these protocols monitored and enforced.
  3. What is the current policy or process for Canberra Hospital management to follow up with patients or their families after an adverse incident, including (a) whether there is a required timeframe for engagement, and (b) how compliance is monitored.
  4. Is there an independent oversight mechanism to monitor and assess the practices of Allied Health teams within ACT public hospitals, including Canberra Hospital.
  5. Is there an independent statutory review body with the power to investigate complaints made by patients or their families regarding treatment in public hospitals, and to direct hospitals to implement changes where necessary.
  6. Does Canberra Hospital currently operate a patient feedback survey program following discharge; if so, how are complaints or negative responses actioned.
  7. What steps have been taken to ensure patient hygiene and dignity are upheld in Canberra Hospital’s Emergency Department and wards, particularly where staff shortages may limit the ability to assist patients with basic care needs such as toileting and hygiene management.
  8. What is the current number of full-time equivalent registered nurses employed in Canberra Hospital’s Emergency Department, including (a) changes in this figure over the past two years, and (b) steps the ACT Government is taking to address any identified shortages.