Long list of problems at WA's new hospital

A long list of problems at Perth's new Fiona Stanley Hospital, including urgent patient cases not being given priority over routine surgery, have been detailed in a government report.

Some patients who were considered semi-urgent with illnesses such as acute appendicitis had been left waiting for surgery for several days, and some of these people then chose to be transferred to nearby St John of God Hospital for their care.

The report also detailed problems relating to service provider Serco, including its porters not being allowed - under the contract - to touch patients. This meant moving a patient from theatre could take three people, whereas it would only require one person at other hospitals.