We call on the South Australian Government to urgently review and strengthen standards of care for mental health patients in rural and regional hospitals.

Recent patient experiences have highlighted serious concerns, including lack of physical health assessments, poor communication, inadequate coordination with treating clinicians, and interactions that are experienced as dismissive or distressing.

Mental health patients are among the most vulnerable in our healthcare system. They deserve to be treated with respect, dignity, and professionalism at all times.

We are calling for:

- Mandatory, ongoing training for all hospital staff in mental health communication and trauma-informed care

- Clear protocols ensuring treating psychiatrists are consulted in admission and discharge decisions

- Stronger oversight and accountability mechanisms for rural hospital care

- Independent review processes for complaints involving patient safety

- Improved standards for documentation, communication, and continuity of care

No patient should feel unheard, unsafe, or dismissed when seeking help.

This petition seeks to ensure that all patients—regardless of location—receive safe, respectful, and appropriate care.

Signed,

Concerned community members, patients, and families