North East Ambulance Service Apologises After Patient Mistakenly Declared Dead
The North East Ambulance Service (NEAS) has issued a formal apology after a shocking mix-up saw a patient declared dead — only to be found alive upon arrival at Darlington Memorial Hospital on Friday.
Paramedics Thought Patient Had Died
Paramedics responding to an “incident” earlier in the day believed the unnamed patient had passed away. They transported the person to hospital under this assumption. But in a dramatic twist, hospital staff discovered the patient was very much alive. The current condition of the individual remains undisclosed.
Official Investigation Launched
Andrew Hodge, NEAS Director of Paramedicine, said: “As soon as we were made aware of this incident, we opened an investigation and contacted the patient’s family. We are deeply sorry for the distress that this has caused them.”
“A full review of this incident is being undertaken, and we are unable to comment any further at this stage.”
Hodge also confirmed the staff involved are receiving support. No additional details about the individuals have been shared as investigations continue.
