Barwon Health: WorkSafe charge laid over psychiatric patient’s death
Charges have been laid over the death of a patient at a trouble-plagued Victorian hospital.
WorkSafe announced on Monday that Barwon Health was facing two charges under the Occupational Health and Safety Act for failing to ensure, so far as was reasonably practicable, people other than employees were not exposed to health and safety risks.
The charges relate to a patient who took her own life while undergoing treatment at the Geelong hospital’s acute psychiatric unit in December 2022.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.The matter is listed for a filing hearing at Geelong Magistrates’ Court on 7 January, 2025.
It comes after two further, separate deaths at Barwon Health facilities last year.
A 22-year-old patient was found dead at its Swanston Centre acute admissions unit on June 10 and a 54-year-old was found dead by staff at the same centre in April.
Barwon Health said it could not comment on the case as it was before the courts.
Lifeline: 13 11 14.
If you or someone you know needs help, phone SANE Australia Helpline on 1800 18 SANE (7263).
