The Health Information and Quality Authority announced today that it is to undertake an investigation into the quality and safety of services and supporting arrangements provided to patients requiring acute admission and receiving care in the Emergency Department of the Adelaide and Meath Hospital, incorporating the national Children’s Hospital (AMNCH).

 At a meeting on Friday 24 June, the Board of the Authority made the decision to instigate a statutory investigation, in accordance with section 9(1) of the Health Act 2007, into the quality, safety and governance of the care provided to patients who require acute admission into the AMNCH. The terms of reference and membership of the investigation team will be published when finalized.

The Authority has had concerns in relation to the quality and safety of the care provided to patients requiring acute admission and receiving care in the Emergency Department and has previously sought assurances in relation to how the Board and Executive of the Hospital are governing and managing these risks.

As with any investigation undertaken by the Authority, and in the interest of a fair and thorough investigation, the Authority does not envisage making any further public comment until the investigation has concluded. The investigation report, and its recommendations, will be published following the completion of the investigation.