Eastern Health says a review of a tragic incident in September, where a patient died as a result of a vehicle-pedestrian accident while being transferred from a facility in Clarenville to St. John’s, has determined that the standard of care was met in the assessment of care of the patient based on policies and procedures in place.
But in a news release today, the health authority said the review also identified areas for improvement in its recommendations.
Eastern Health said it will continue to review its policy on patient transfers between sites within the region with a view to ensure it reflects best practice and incorporates aspects of risk assessment to the transfer of certain clients. Attention will also be given to the type of escort required, such as a health professional, family member or other support person.
Eastern Health said it will also explore the capacity for a mobile crisis response for rural areas within its jurisdiction.
Vickie Kaminski, president and CEO of Eastern Health, will be speaking to the media today about the review at 1:30 p.m.
On Sept. 24, Eastern Health issued a statement to confirm that the victim of the fatal vehicle-pedestrian accident was a patient of Eastern Health. In the statement, Eastern Health advised that it was looking into the circumstances that occurred prior to and during the transport of the patient.
“This truly was a tragic accident and again I want to offer my condolences to the patient’s family,” said Kaminski. “The results of the review have been shared with the family. We are making available our expert support to the family. We are also supporting the employees of Eastern Health who were involved in the patient’s care and those of the private ambulance provider involved in the patient transfer.”
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