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"Emergency Dept Dr"

About: Bunbury Hospital / Emergency Department

(as the patient),

I went to Bunbury ED recently after a persistent cough getting worst. Due to wheezing and light headedness from coughing so much I feared it was asthma related.

I was promptly triaged and had a chest xray. Wait time wasn't bad, less than 3 hours. When I finally got to see a Dr, I felt they were  aggressive from the start. Asked why I was there, told them, including prior GP diag 3 weeks prior. I recall they responded saying 'well what do you want me to do about it?' Told me I could have seen a GP about the issue, why was I in ED.

Told the Dr it was a 2 week wait to see my GP and was told if cough got worst to go to ED and I recall they said 'that's not my problem'. Told me I had phlegm and I would get over it.

I asked the Dr about the prior GP diagnosis and I recall they said, 'so you've already diagnosed yourself then?' I explained again no my GP did x-ray and bloods and had me on antibiotics but they haven't helped. Responded with 'so you want blood tests fine, we can do that but it will be the same outcome'.

I told them not to worry and they needs to work on their attitude towards people who are unwell. All this was done while I was struggling to get a deep breath. I asked a nurse for a complaint from and was told to go to reception i have up. I left in tears. Still unable to breathe properly, aggressively coughing and exhausted. 

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Responses

Response from Stephen Hartwig, Director of Emergency Medicine, Bunbury Hospital, WACHS South West 4 months ago
Stephen Hartwig
Director of Emergency Medicine, Bunbury Hospital,
WACHS South West

Lead the team of Emergency Medicine doctors.

Submitted on 11/02/2025 at 4:50 PM
Published on Care Opinion Australia on 12/02/2025 at 9:58 AM


Dear empathyzl91

I am very sorry to hear that you were not treated with care and compassion.

Of note, I think 3 hours is too long to wait (although unfortunately it happens much more than we would like).

I would be very grateful if you would send an email to swfeedback@health.wa.gov.au so that I can look into your care specifics.

Regards, and thanks.

Steve Hartwig

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