Hames admits baby delay unacceptable
The delay in an autopsy for a Perth baby who died of suspected SIDS was unacceptable, Health Minister Kim Hames said yesterday.
Dr Hames said he would try to find a solution with Attorney-General Michael Mischin after _The West Australian _revealed the plight of the family of three-week-old Mason Martin, who died on February 4 but could not be cremated with his body intact until February 23.
His grandparents Graham and Michelle Hood pleaded with the Premier to review the State's forensic services after the family made the distressing decision to delay his cremation so they could have the baby's brain returned to his body.
The delay was caused by WA's only forensic neuropathologist being on leave and only working one day a week at the State Mortuary. Dr Hames said the time the family had to wait was concerning.
Mr Mischin said the way organisations dealt with people going on leave was a matter for them but he would discuss the case with Dr Hames.
A spokeswoman for the Premier said his office was seeking advice before responding to Mr Hood's concerns.
