In a tragic incident at Dubbo Base Hospital in New South Wales, a doctor admitted to forming an incorrect impression of an Aboriginal man's condition. Ricky "Dougie" Hampson Jr. was discharged from the hospital just hours before his death, which was later attributed to two perforated duodenal ulcers.
Despite presenting with severe stomach pain, Mr. Hampson was diagnosed with cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome, a rare condition typically associated with nausea and vomiting. This diagnosis was made despite Mr. Hampson not exhibiting these symptoms. He was prescribed a sedative and dismissed from the hospital without undergoing any scans.
An inquest is currently underway to investigate the circumstances surrounding Mr. Hampson's death. It will examine why scans were not performed and whether any biases influenced his treatment. Furthermore, it will consider the potential impact of Mr. Hampson's drug use, previous incarceration, and Aboriginal heritage on his care.
The Western NSW Local Health District has apologized for the "shortcomings" in Mr. Hampson's treatment, acknowledging that such failings must not be repeated. The family of the deceased has expressed concern about the historical reluctance of Aboriginal people to seek medical assistance due to systemic racism within the healthcare system.