NSW Health authorities have confirmed that three doctors at Inverell Hospital have been providing anesthesia without proper supervision. This has resulted in the suspension of elective surgery and obstetric services at the hospital. The Hunter-New England Health District, which oversees Inverell Hospital, issued a statement acknowledging the error and stating that an investigation is underway to determine how it occurred. The district has implemented measures to prevent a recurrence.
Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall was informed of the issue by Health Minister Ryan Park. Marshall noted that patients who had scheduled elective surgeries had received unexpected cancellations without explanation. The health district has reviewed medical records of patients treated by the three doctors and has not identified any adverse clinical outcomes. To ensure continuity of care, the district has arranged for potential patient transfers to other facilities within their network. The district emphasized their commitment to resolving the issue and reinstating anesthesia services at Inverell as soon as possible.