Hospital defends treatment of man later shot by police

Cairns Hospital's chief executive has defended the medical treatment provided to a 28-year-old man who was shot by police hours after his release from the facility. The man had been taken to the hospital by police on Friday night under an emergency examination authority after allegedly jumping naked on cars near a shopping center.

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I can confirm the particular individual received the appropriate medical treatment on his presentation.

He was discharged within hours. The following evening, police shot the man when he was allegedly armed with two knives. During the incident, officers also accidentally shot a 50-year-old bystander. The Queensland Police Union has called for any investigation into the shooting to include the man's earlier hospital presentation and discharge.

Leena Singh, chief executive of the Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service, stated at a parliamentary hearing that the individual received appropriate medical treatment upon arrival. A preliminary review found clinicians acted appropriately and in accordance with health policies, legislation, and professional judgment. The hospital service emphasized its ongoing collaboration with the Queensland Police Service.

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Our health service works closely with Queensland Police Service and other partner agencies every day to provide the best possible care for our community.

The man faces eight charges, including wilful damage and attempted robbery. His court appearance has been adjourned twice as he recovers from the shooting. The police Ethical Standards Command is investigating the incident, and the Health Minister's office confirmed cooperation with police, including examining the man's interactions with the health system. Local MP Michael Healy stressed the need for a thorough investigation into the hospital's handling of the case and called for public communication on measures to prevent recurrence.

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Very reasonably the community would expect some answers to this and I think they are well and truly within their rights to ask that.