The North Central Regional Health Authority (NCRHA) says it is moving to reform its patient escort and hospital attendant services following an internal review that identified serious concerns over recruitment, attendance, discipline and management oversight.
The authority said the review found reports and allegations of bullying, intimidation, extortion, threats and alleged gang affiliation among some employees.
Other concerns included absenteeism reportedly ranging between 30 and 50 per cent daily, persistent late-coming, employees leaving before the end of shifts, disobedience of legitimate instructions and, in some cases, refusal to transport patients.
The NCRHA said these issues contributed to frequent delays in transferring patients between wards, diagnostic services and other clinical areas and, in some instances, affected ambulance operations.
The review also raised concerns about recruitment and screening practices under the previous administration.
According to the authority, a significant number of employees had been hired without meeting stipulated qualifications for their positions and/or without submitting required documentation, including Police Certificates of Good Character.
The NCRHA said that among one group of 69 employees reviewed, only five had submitted the required certificate.
The authority said the problems persisted despite additional resources, including wheelchairs and ambulances, being provided to address concerns that had previously been cited as reasons for delays in transporting patients.
With more than 400 employees across the two services, the NCRHA said its current board, Chief Executive Officer and executive management have implemented measures to restore discipline and accountability.
These include strengthened supervision, continuous training, proper rostering, closer monitoring of attendance and increased management oversight.
The authority said several disciplinary matters are currently under investigation and appropriate action is being pursued in accordance with established procedures.
It said the interventions are already producing results, with attendance improving and the time taken to transport patients between areas of the hospital being “drastically reduced.”
The NCRHA also said greater order, stability and a sense of peace have been restored within the department.
The authority acknowledged the Patient Escorts and Hospital Attendants who continue to perform their duties professionally and provide support to patients and healthcare professionals.
However, it said there is no place within the public healthcare system for gangsterism, intimidation, bullying, extortion or any behaviour that threatens employees, compromises patient care or interferes with healthcare delivery.
The NCRHA said allegations of wrongdoing will continue to be investigated and decisive action will be taken where misconduct is established.
