News that at least seven people have died in sentinel events at Latrobe Regional Health since 2022 is tragic evidence the state government is failing to provide adequate healthcare for Victorians, according to The Nationals Member for Morwell, Martin Cameron.
Documents obtained by The Nationals and Liberals under Freedom of Information reveal Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas was aware of the deaths, which were the result of “medical negligence”, but chose not to inform the community.
Mr Cameron said the tragic deaths were irrefutable evidence that urgent intervention is needed to address critical staff shortages and poor performance figures at Latrobe Regional Health (LRH).
“Our doctors and nurses do their absolute best in incredibly difficult circumstances, but it’s abundantly clear LRH is under-resourced and lives have been lost because of that,” he said.
“Any death is a tragedy, but the fact that some of these deaths were avoidable is completely unfathomable and unacceptable.
“These are egregious breaches that must be independently investigated, and the Minister for Health must come clean about why these deaths were covered up.
“Loved ones of the deceased deserve answers and clarity, and Latrobe Valley residents need to feel confident they’ll receive the best care possible.
“Our health system is seriously sick, and the Labor Government must take immediate action to properly resource and staff our hospitals and emergency departments.”
