A new survey has revealed high levels of fatigue in young Hunter doctors.
Data from the 2022 Australian Medical Association NSW Survey indicates 54% of doctors-in-training at John Hunter Hospital felt they had made a fatigue-induced error while working.
This was higher than the state average of 46%.
52% also reported experiencing a heavy or very heavy inpatient workload.
In comparison, 32% of Maitland Hospital workers, and 45% at the Calvary Mater, felt they had made a mistake due to tiredness.
Figures out of the Mater also indicate 73% of staff members were concerned about their health and safety in regards to their roster.
The results come after the COVID-19 pandemic shook the region, with staff furloughs meaning doctors were forced to cover shifts for sick staff members.
AMA NSW Doctors-in-Training Committee co-chair Dr Sanjay Hettige, told Newcastle Herald the pandemic had both increased and highlighted the pressure felt by young doctors.
And, Executive Director of Medical Services at Hunter New England Health, Professor Trish Davidson said improving these statistics is a significant focus moving forward.
