Tasmanian hospital patient death inquiries

Tasmanian coroners have conducted investigations into patient deaths at state hospitals, highlighting concerns regarding medical assessments and systemic care protocols.

In one instance, a coroner ordered an inquiry into the 2020 death of an 82-year-old woman at Launceston General Hospital. The investigation seeks to clarify whether her death resulted from a traumatic impact or an underlying natural condition, following medical reviews that questioned the initial certification of the cause of death.

In a separate matter, a coroner identified a “missed opportunity” regarding the care of an 82-year-old woman who died by suicide at the Royal Hobart Hospital. The findings indicated that the hospital lacked adequate processes for referring patients experiencing acute mental health deterioration to appropriate services. In response, the Tasmanian Health Service has implemented additional staff training, and recommendations have been made for a systemic review of how hospitals manage acute mental wellbeing deterioration.