‘Distressing’: Alfred patient calls for more funding for hospitals after seeing the state of her room

A patient in the lung transplant and respiratory ward at the Alfred hospital has called on the government to deliver more funding for hospitals after seeing the state of the room she’s staying in.

Patient Jade told Jacqui Felgate her room has watermarks on the ceiling, posing a risk to her health.

“This is on the government and the lack of funding for our health system as a whole,” Felgate said.

Press PLAY to hear Felgate’s comments on the health system + Jade’s story

Jade reiterated the doctors and staff at the Alfred are “absolutely world class”, but found the shower in particular in her room “distressing”.

“Recent funding cuts just have a knock-on effect, and that can affect the most vulnerable in the community,” she said.

An Alfred Health spokesperson has since released the following statement:

We can confirm that both the walls and ceiling are dry, and there is no mould present in the room.

The walls do have a mottled look by design and, while there is some minor water staining in the bathroom from prior condensation, our engineering team has confirmed there is no dampness present.

Patient comfort is important to us and, noting the room’s appearance has caused concern, we will repaint the ceiling and replace any affected tiles.

Jacqui Felgate has also been alerted to a “mice plague” at the Royal Melbourne Hospital by multiple staff members.

The Royal Melbourne Hospital has since released the following statement:

The Royal Melbourne Hospital (RMH) has robust pest control measures in place.

We are aware that pest activity can increase during periods of construction and renovation, with works ongoing across the hospital.

Patient and staff safety is a priority for us and we are continuing to work with our pest control company to manage the issue.

Images: Supplied