A recent review conducted after a tragic incident in South Australia’s largest public hospital suggests that its emergency department isn’t adequately equipped to provide effective mental health care. The review was prompted by the death of Julie Seed and the serious injury of Susan Scardigno in a stabbing incident at their workplace in Adelaide.
Shaun Michael Dunk is facing legal proceedings over the alleged murder and attempted murder. SA Health revealed that Dunk had been discharged from the Royal Adelaide Hospital (RAH) just days before the incident, following treatment for a mental health condition.
The findings of the independent review, led by Sophie Davison and Sandra Keppich-Arnold, highlighted several shortcomings. These included issues with the emergency department’s model of care, particularly concerning the use of security guards for mental health observation instead of mental health nurses. Systemic issues such as prolonged waits for mental health beds and lack of continuity of care were also identified.
The report, although not fully disclosed due to ongoing legal proceedings, presented six recommendations. SA Health has accepted these recommendations and plans to implement them promptly.
According to SA’s chief psychiatrist John Brayley, the review emphasized the need for better quality care, especially in identifying opportunities for early intervention. Minister Chris Picton underscored that there was no evidence of individual clinicians’ actions falling below acceptable standards.
The review called for improved communication between the RAH and the Urgent Mental Health Care Centre (UMHCC) to better flag frequent attenders and maintain centralized patient records. SA Health executives Dr. Brayley and Robyn Lawrence are tasked with overseeing the implementation of the recommendations.
While some changes, like recruiting more mental health nurses, may take time, the RAH will continue providing mental health care. Though the review didn’t propose changes to the Mental Health Act, concerns were raised about the lack of a time limit for mandatory medical review.
Mr. Picton indicated that potential reforms to the legislation were under consideration to enhance the safety of the mental health care system. The government is also in talks with the families of the victims to address broader issues, including justice system reforms and strategies to prevent violence against women.
