Limited access to operating theatre delayed orthopedic surgery - 21HDC02038

In a decision released today, health and disability commissioner Morag McDowell has found Health New Zealand Te Whatu Ora Southern breached the Code of Health and Disability Services Consumers’ Rights (the Code) for failing to provide an appropriate standard of care to a woman in her 70s.

The woman, who was otherwise healthy, was to undergo surgery for a fractured femur. The surgery was delayed by four days due to limited access to operating theatres and the woman died a few days post-op.

Timely treatment for older patients with femoral fractures is particularly important for reducing the risks of morbidity and mortality. Therefore, the delay increased the risk of patient harm.