More than 60 NSW mental health beds close as leaked memos reveal hospitals’ plan for mass psychiatrist resignations
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One psychiatrist raises concerns about proposed back-up arrangements as health officials rush to fill staffing gaps.
More than 60 mental health beds in public hospitals are temporarily closing in New South Wales as some hospitals are being given directives to limit psychiatric assessments because of mass resignations.
A senior psychiatrist told Guardian Australia that the emergency plans to manage psychiatric patients will mean decisions on discharge or the need for further care will be delayed, causing bed blockages across the health system. The doctor spoke on condition of anonymity.
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