This is Care Opinion [siteRegion]. Did you want Care Opinion [usersRegionBasedOnIP]?

"Visits to emergency"

About: Kalgoorlie Health Campus / Emergency Department

(as a relative),

My spouse visited ED 3 times in a space of a week. All for chest pain. My spouse has a significant heart medical history and sees a private Cardiologist in Perth. 

The 1st visit I felt they dismissed the pain stating it wasn't a heart attack. Later finding out the doctor didnt write/document any notes. The 2nd visit the Dr contacted his Cardiologist where he prescribed meds to help. 2nd doctor (Dr N). I felt Dr N was good. I feel it's a shame he has since left. 

A couple of days later, it was not resolving so my spouse went back to ED where an ED (I believe) intern saw my spouse who stated it wasn't a heart attack and was going to discharge my spouse. I stated that my spouse is still experiencing significant chest pain and that my spouse sees a Cardiologist in Perth so contact the clinic. I recall the intern then said that because my spouse sees a private Cardiologist, Kalgoorlie hospital can't contact private specialists. My spouse looked visibly unwell and still experiencing chest pain. I recall the intern then said that only come back to ED if you have a new Symptom, I believe pretty much saying don't come back if you still have chest pain. Unbelievable. 

Still, we about to be discharged, I made a care call. We were still discharged and I have to help my spouse to walk out as my spouse couldn't walk by themselves. A senior doctor came out as we were about to walk out the front door and brought us back in to talk. I still wasn't happy about the intern's training or bedside manner. I feel to seemingly tell someone not to come back to ed for chest pain is unacceptable.

My spouse had to fly down to Perth and was admitted under their Cardiologist at a private hospital for a heart condition. I believe communication is not the ED's strong point. I am appalled at the hospital's handling of my spouse's experience. Based on our experience I do not have faith in Kalgoorlie Hospital's Emergency Department's ability to treat patients. But again, I believe there is no point complaining as I feel the hospital will just defend the staff despite their apparent incompetence. 

Do you have a similar story to tell? Tell your story & make a difference ››
Opinions
Next Response j
Previous Response k