Message from Eileen Hannagan, Chief Executive Officer
I want to update our community about an investigation we have undertaken into deaths in the Bendigo Hospital Intensive Care Unit relating to the determination and certification of brain death between June 2021 and June 2025.
This investigation commenced after staff raised concerns during our routine review process about the death of a patient.
Those concerns were taken seriously, and an internal review was undertaken into all brain death certifications in our Intensive Care Unit over the four-year period.
Through that work, we identified concerns regarding documentation and processes used in the determination of brain death.
Once these issues were identified, we acted immediately. We notified Safer Care Victoria, and mandatory notifications were also made to the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and the Medical Board of Australia.
We commissioned a comprehensive independent review by four highly experienced intensive care specialists.
The review found that required procedures for treatment decisions and the determination of brain death were not always followed. Eleven cases were identified as having incomplete documentation, including four cases where the review identified major concerns. Appropriate action was taken in relation to the clinicians involved, including counselling and mandatory notifications to the relevant authorities.
We have referred the findings of the review to the Coroner's Court of Victoria.
I know how distressing it is to hear this.
Most importantly, there are families at the centre of this. We have spoken with them directly and they have been through an incredibly difficult time. We are continuing to support them and ask that their privacy is respected.
This has also been very difficult for our staff. They care deeply about their patients and about this community. I particularly want to acknowledge the staff who raised their concerns. Speaking up when something doesn't seem right is an important part of keeping patients safe, and their dedication to patient safety is recognised.
Our commitment to safe care
Our Intensive Care Unit follows the Australian and New Zealand Intensive Care Society protocols for the determination of brain death, and compliance with these requirements is closely monitored and audited.
We have also made important changes, including additional training, strengthened processes and increased support for our staff.
I want our community to know that when concerns are raised, we will investigate them thoroughly, transparently and promptly. We will act on what we find, and we will be open about it.
Information for families
If you are a family member of a patient who was cared for in the Bendigo Hospital Intensive Care Unit and you have questions or concerns, we encourage you to contact us using the dedicated phone number or email address below.
We are committed to listening to your concerns, providing information where we can, and ensuring your enquiry is managed with care, compassion and sensitivity.
Dedicated phone line: (03) 5454 8040
Email: [email protected]
Media enquiries: [email protected] or call (03) 5454 8562