Family urges review after death of son

A Family’s Quest for Justice

The tragic passing of Joe Massa has sent shockwaves through the community, as his parents, Elouise and Danny Massa, seek answers and justice. Their son’s untimely death at the Northern Beaches Hospital has ignited a quest for accountability, highlighting potential failures in the healthcare system. The family’s grief is compounded by their belief that Joe’s death could have been prevented with proper care, prompting them to advocate for a coronial inquest and an independent review of the hospital’s emergency department.

Calls for Systemic Change

Elouise and Danny Massa are urging Premier Minns and Health Minister Ryan Park to implement significant reforms. They emphasize the need for more than just minor policy adjustments, advocating for a coronial inquest and an independent review to ensure such a tragedy never recurs. Their campaign includes statewide education on parents’ rights to escalate concerns and enforcing the NSW Health’s "REACH" protocols, aiming to empower families and improve care standards.

Lapses in Care

The Massas detailed several lapses in Joe’s care, including denied requests for intravenous fluids and insufficient monitoring in the resuscitation room. Despite available resources, Joe was not provided a bed for over two hours, delaying critical intervention. The initial misdiagnosis as gastro and inadequate assessment by a trainee doctor further exacerbated the situation, leading to Joe’s rapid decline and eventual cardiac arrest.

Government and Health Officials Respond

Health Minister Ryan Park has raised concerns about the privatization model under which the hospital operates, questioning the public-private partnership with Healthscope. An audit by the NSW auditor-general is currently investigating the hospital’s performance, as these issues are not isolated, following another tragic death in 2021. Healthscope, owned by Brookfield, has acknowledged the family’s grief and the community’s loss.

Community and Political Reactions

Local politicians Michael Regan and Sophie Scamps have joined the chorus calling for an independent inquiry, reflecting the community’s waning confidence in the hospital. Regan, while cautious to criticize medical staff, notes the erosion of trust, with many opting for other hospitals. Scamps, having previously engaged with the auditor, is optimistic about the investigation’s potential to drive positive change.

The Broader Implications

The case underscores the debate over healthcare privatization and its impact on quality and accountability. The Northern Beaches Hospital’s public-private partnership, set to last until 2038, serves as a focal point for concerns about prioritizing profits over patient care. The Massas’ advocacy aims not only to honor Joe’s memory but also to ensure no family endures similar hopelessness, pushing for a healthcare system that truly serves the community’s needs. Their story is a poignant reminder of the human cost of systemic failures and the urgent need for reform.