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Queensland Launches Independent Probe Into Townsville Urology Care Failures

Investigators will determine whether appointment failures or workforce shortages caused missed results.

Overview

  • Queensland Health commissioned a Part 9 investigation covering urology services from January 1, 2022 to July 31, 2025 at Townsville University Hospital.
  • A local review identified at least 11 patients who experienced gaps or delays in follow-up, with some having cancer diagnoses, and each has been contacted for clinical care.
  • A dedicated urology taskforce and phone line have been established to reach patients and handle complaints while the investigation proceeds.
  • The inquiry will examine booking-system breakdowns and whether a shortage of urologists and specialist clinicians contributed to delays, with the total number of affected patients still unknown.
  • Townsville Hospital and Health Service reports an 821-patient urology waitlist, and similar delivery issues flagged in 2023–24 will form part of the probe.