An investigation has been initiated following the tragic death of two-year-old Joe Massa, prompted by the New South Wales (NSW) coroner’s directive. According to NSW Police, Joe’s death was not reported at the time it occurred, but the police retrospectively informed the coroner yesterday, leading to an inquiry by the Northern Beaches Police Area Command.
Joe was admitted to Northern Beaches Hospital on September 14 after experiencing a night of vomiting and displaying signs of hypovolemia, a condition resulting from significant fluid loss. Despite his critical state, including a dangerously high heart rate, Joe had to wait over two-and-a-half hours for a bed. His mother’s repeated requests for intravenous fluids were denied.
Joe later transferred to Sydney Children’s Hospital in Randwick, where he sadly passed away. His parents, Danny and Elouise Massa, believe that inadequate care at Northern Beaches Hospital contributed to his death, asserting that their son would still be alive had he received proper treatment. They are now advocating for “Joe’s Law,” aimed at preventing similar tragedies for other families.
The management of Healthscope, which operates Northern Beaches Hospital, faced harsh questioning in the NSW Parliament regarding Joe’s care. Chief Medical Officer and Chief Operating Officer Peter Thomas took full accountability for the incident, admitting that the failure to administer an IV drip, despite three requests from Joe’s mother, was a significant error. He acknowledged that administering fluids sooner would have been appropriate.
The investigation continues, with police preparing a report for the coroner as they seek to understand the circumstances surrounding this heartbreaking event.