Heart man told to take bus home
The former police officer and police prosecutor said he was not blaming the Capital & Coast District Health Board.
He said there was a lack of funding in the health sector, which was resulting in poor treatment toward patients
‘‘It’s cost cutting...it is the epitome of pure arrogance towards welfare.’’
Health Minister Dr Jonathan Coleman said health funding was at a record spend at the moment. ‘‘Vote Health is at a record $15.9 billion, including the extra $400 million received this year.’’
Capital & Coast District Health Board chief operating officer Chris Lowry said when assessing a patient for discharge, medical staff looked at what the safest travel option was based on a patient’s medical and personal situation.
This may include having family or friends collecting them, which occurs in the majority of cases, or travelling home by road ambulance, he said.
Where none of these options are available, the social work team will work with the patient to find the best and safest transport option.
In some cases where the person has been deemed medically fit they will travel by bus. Social workers also work with patients who require clothing to help them source these. Some patients may be able to access the National Transport Assistance Scheme.
After refusing to take the bus, Sutherland was taken home by air ambulance a couple of hours later.
Upon arrival to Palmerston North, he was readmitted to hospital after suffering an angina attack. ‘‘I was going home on the bus in bloody slippers.
‘‘I simply took a stance.’’ Onlookers heard a ‘‘whoosh’’ as flames from an asbestos-filled Palmerston North business shot out its roof.
The ‘‘well involved’’ fire at the Milson Foundry, on Malden St, began about 1.10pm on Monday after a flammable liquid was ignited by welding inside.
More than 20 people were evacuated from the building when the fire broke out.
Sime Darby commercial accountant David Newell watched the building go up from across the road.