A Barossa mother has shared her distressing experience of being turned away from a local hospital while her infant daughter struggled after a feeding tube was dislodged, reigniting calls for a review of regional health services.
Mother's Plea for Change
Hayley Laney, a resident of the Barossa region, has spoken out about the incident involving her daughter Averley at the Tanunda and Angaston Hospital in 2023. In an interview with InDaily, Laney described the harrowing moment when medical staff told her they could not treat her baby, despite the child being in visible distress.
According to Laney, Averley had a feeding tube that was accidentally pulled out, causing her to struggle. She rushed her daughter to the local hospital, expecting immediate care, but instead was informed that the facility was unable to provide the necessary treatment.
Growing Calls for Review
The incident has added fuel to ongoing concerns about the adequacy of regional health services in South Australia. Community members and health advocates are now calling for a comprehensive review of hospital capabilities and staffing in rural areas.
Laney's story highlights the challenges faced by families in regional communities who often have to travel long distances for medical care. She expressed frustration that her daughter's condition was not taken seriously and that the hospital lacked the resources to handle such cases.
Health officials have yet to comment on the specific incident, but the state government has previously acknowledged the need to improve regional healthcare. A review of services is expected to be considered in the coming months.
The Barossa mother hopes that by sharing her story, she can prevent other families from experiencing similar trauma. She is urging authorities to ensure that regional hospitals are equipped to handle emergencies and that staff are trained to provide appropriate care for infants and young children.
