Wentworth Hospital horror: Shocking incidents spark outrage
Wentworth Hospital is facing serious scrutiny following an alleged rape and a separate case of a woman giving birth outside without immediate assistance.
SHOCK and outrage are mounting after two disturbing incidents at Wentworth Hospital, including an alleged rape and a birth on hospital grounds, sparked questions about patient care and oversight.
A source told the SUN that the woman had been wheeled from a step-down facility to visit her brother when the alleged rape occurred. She reportedly informed medical staff immediately, but no action was taken.
Also read: Concerns rise over priority care delays at Wentworth Hospital
Patient safety scrutinised
The matter only came to light nearly two months later, on February 7, when it was reported to a district surgeon and recorded in her medical file. The suspect was arrested the same day, although it is unclear whether he remains in custody. The source further alleged the victim has still not received medical treatment.
“The hospital board is sweeping this incident under the carpet,” the source alleged. Hospital board representative, Sidney Govindsamy, said the board was only made aware of the incident on February 14, through an external source.
“This raised serious concerns about internal reporting protocols and transparency,” he said. An urgent meeting was called on February 17, where the board criticised delays in reporting and potential breaches in patient safety and governance.
Also read: Hospital board targets improvements at Wentworth Hospital
No investigation report
Despite repeated requests for a full investigation report, no feedback has been provided. “A follow-up meeting on March 17, yielded no report. A further seven-day deadline was also ignored,” said Govindsamy.
On April 1, the board escalated the matter to the reinstated CEO, warning of further escalation. Although a response was received citing staff leave, no report has since been submitted.
“The matter has now been escalated to the provincial level,” he said, adding that it is also before the courts.
Woman gives birth outside hospital
In a separate incident, a heavily pregnant woman gave birth on a patch of grass outside the hospital after allegedly not receiving immediate assistance. Eyewitness Jody Stuart said the woman was “screaming for help”, but was told to go to the maternity ward.
Also read: Wentworth Hospital battles medication shortages
“While a wheelchair was being fetched, she went outside and gave birth standing up, in full view of others. It was only after the baby fell onto the grass that staff rushed out to assist,” said Stuart. Both mother and baby are believed to be recovering.
Govindsamy said the board only became aware of this incident through social media. “No formal report has been submitted. These incidents highlight serious failures in governance, reporting and accountability,” he said.
He confirmed that hospital management has met with community members, and a full report is expected.
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