Queensland health investigation launched after Brisbane man dies following ambulance delay

An investigation has been launched into the death of a 53-year-old man in Annerley, Brisbane, who died after waiting more than two hours for an ambulance. The man had called emergency services reporting chest pain and shortness of breath. Despite his call being categorized as a code 1C—a priority level typically attended to within 27 minutes 90 per cent of the time—the Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) contacted him to ask if he could drive himself to the Princess Alexandra Hospital.

The man declined the request, stating it was unsafe to drive in his condition. Paramedics arrived more than two hours later to find him deceased in his home. Queensland Health Minister Tim Nicholls described the incident as “unacceptable” and noted that the man’s family only learned of his death through media reports, which has caused further distress.

A critical incident review is underway to determine if protocols were followed. This case is being investigated alongside another recent death involving an 80-year-old man who died while waiting for a hospital bed in South Brisbane, highlighting significant pressure on the Queensland health system.