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"Lack of duty of care to an alcoholic and over prescription of addictive medication with absolutely no follow up"

About: Margaret River Hospital Margaret River Hospital / Emergency Department

(as a relative),

I called an ambulance for my sibling recently as they were literally killing themselves from alcoholism. They were sent to Margaret River hospital. After being assessed, the Dr (who I felt was extremely arrogant), wanted to discharge my sibling after 2 hours even after they explained they had suicidal tendencies and was drinking excessive alcohol 24 hours a day.

Long story short my sibling stayed over night then a doctor discharged them the next day with a script for 50 diazepam 5mg and 30 quetiapine 25mg. I understand there was absolutely no follow up from them. 

Two days later called another ambulance as my sibling had OD on the scripts they were given, all washed down with wine and straight Gin.

I’m am absolutely appalled with the apparent lack of duty of care that these to Dr’s showed. I believe my sibling needs acute withdrawal care followed by extensive rehab. Yet we were a given a script for a bunch of highly addictive pills and seemingly sent on our merry way.

I think this is disgraceful and something needs to be done about this asap.

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Responses

Response from Marie Tweedie, Director of Nursing - Health Service Manager, Leeuwin, WACHS SW yesterday
Marie Tweedie
Director of Nursing - Health Service Manager, Leeuwin,
WACHS SW
Submitted on 6/05/2025 at 3:11 PM
Published on Care Opinion Australia at 3:12 PM


Dear romeodk83,

Thank you for reaching out and sharing your story regarding the care of your sibling.

I sincerely apologise if we have in anyway caused additional stress at what must be a very worrying time for you and your family. We want the people in our care to be supported with understanding and compassion and I am so sorry that we have let you and your sibling down in this way.

I would like to learn more about what has happened and would appreciate the opportunity to speak with you to further understand the situation and ensure that your sibling is receiving the care and support they need.

My name is Marie Tweedie and I am the Director of Nursing at Margaret River Hospital. Please feel free to call me at a time that is convenient for you on 0427 588 300.

I do hope to hear from you soon.

Yours sincerely

Marie Tweedie

Director of Nursing, Health Service Manager

Leeuwin Hospitals – Margaret River/Augusta

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