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Brisbane Woman's Death Spurs Hospital System Review
23 Sep
Summary
- A 69-year-old woman died during a medical test at Queen Elizabeth II Hospital.
- Coroner cited fragmented care and missed warning signs in patient's condition.
- The report suggests a review of southern Brisbane's health and hospital system.
A coronial report has recommended a review of southern Brisbane's health and hospital system following the death of Yaqin Han, a 69-year-old woman who suffered a cardiac arrest during a diagnostic test. Han passed away on October 14, 2022, at the Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Hospital after experiencing a cardiac arrest during an exercise stress test.
Coroner Ainslie Kierkegaard noted that while the medical team acted appropriately, potential warning signs of Han's severe aortic stenosis were missed due to fragmented care and a significant time lapse between consultations. Communication was also hindered by Han's status as a Mandarin speaker, requiring translators for appointments.
The report suggested that the Metro South Health system could re-examine its cardiac care model, drawing a comparison to a more centralized triage system used in Brisbane's northern hospitals. The Princess Alexandra Hospital is identified as the area's heart valve centre of excellence.
