MISS PORTER’S DEATH.

Hokitika Guardian, 8 May 1923, Page 3

MISS PORTER’S DEATH.

INQUIRY SVGUESTED. HOSPITALS ALLEGED NEGLECT. [by TEI.UORATII —TER TRESS ASSOCIATION.] WELLINGTON. May 8. The inquest concerning the death ot Miss Phyllis Porter, a member of the Peep Show ('ey., was heard this morning "hen the Coroner. Mr Hunt, S.M. found that death was due to burns, shock and other complications resulting from the frock catching tire during the show.

As a result of the evidence submitted. the Coroner announced that he would write to the Hospital Board, suggesting that an inquiry should he hold immediately as to the alleged delay in admitting and treating the sufferer at the Hospital. Two members of the Company, who went to the hospital with the patient stated that she was there suffering great pain, and was in cold draughts for nearly half an hour before being treated bv the doctor—this in spite ot the fact that the hospital was communicated with and told that a serious ease was on the way there.

On arrival she was seen by the doctor. but not examined, and sent to the children’s ward "here she was refused admission, being too old. She was then carried on a stretcher through the hospital grounds, being shielded from the rain by one of the members of the Company, to another ward where admission was point blank refused.

She was finally admitted, after a delay, to a third ward.

Witnesses said they were pleased with the treatment thereafter.

The doctor responsible was not called to give evidence, the Coroner deciding that this matter would be best cleared up at a separate inquiry. The hospital doctor who did give evidence, admitted that there was, unfortunately, some delay before treatment, after which everything possible was done.