Bosnian folk singer not turned away from Brisbane hospitals

Claims a Bosnian folk singer requiring urgent heart surgery was turned away from four Brisbane hospitals are incorrect, Health Minister Stephen Robertson said today.

“The treatment of this woman had nothing to do with radiographers or staff shortages at Brisbane hospitals.

“Its’ also worth noting the only person not complaining about her treatment is the patient herself.”

Mr Robertson said the patient was admitted to Redcliffe Hospital at 11pm on June 12 and clinically assessed by doctors as not an emergency case.

“Redcliffe Hospital does not perform angioplasty: a relatively simple cardiac procedure to implant a stent (balloon) to re-open blocked blood vessels.

“The patient received constant care and there is no suggestion the patient was in any danger.

“Queensland Health used its Clinical Network to find the first available hospital with an opening in its cardiology schedule to perform this procedure as soon as possible.

“This ensures we can utilise available capacity in our hospitals so that patients get treatment as soon as possible

“The Gold Coast Hospital advised it was available to perform the angioplasty so she was transferred on June 14 to the Gold Coast and immediately underwent the procedure.

“On any other day, the Princess Alexandra or Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital may have been the first available hospital with an opening in its cardiology schedule to perform the procedure.”

MEDIA: PAUL LYNCH 3234 1190