Randers psychiatric facility faces scrutiny over inadequate patient treatment

The psychiatric facility in Randers is currently facing a serious issue concerning inadequate treatment of numerous patients by a leading physician. Recently revealed information indicates that the suicide of a young patient could have likely been prevented had the care provided met expert specialty standards, as concluded by a compensation body.

In September, the Central Denmark Region issued a press release expressing concern over the work of the leading physician on Ward C. This physician was sent home in February following a whistleblower report and was subsequently dismissed in the spring. A new departmental leadership is to be appointed to oversee the situation. The region is worried about the treatment of 1,500 patients in this ward and has initiated a comprehensive review of patient records to determine if standards were met.

Initial findings from this review suggest that nearly 60% of the patient cases assessed fall below medical standards, prompting several individuals to consider pursuing compensation claims. Hundreds of records still require examination.

Since 2019, multiple warnings have surfaced regarding the practices of the leading physician on Ward C from relatives, patients, doctors, and union representatives. However, substantial action was not taken until a whistleblower’s alert in January. The working conditions on the ward have drawn scrutiny from occupational health inspectors, who have issued both official and immediate orders.

Investigations have revealed a lack of proper patient assessments and management, with alarming conclusions noting that dangerous patients have been allowed to leave the facility shortly after admission. There are also concerns regarding insufficient attention given to antipsychotic medication for psychotic patients.

In light of these repeated warnings, regional politicians are demanding answers from the hospital management and advocate for a more proactive approach to handling concerns.