Cyclist presentations double at the RMH

Throughout the month of August, approximately 69 pushbike riders received medical attention at the RMH's ED - more than double the 32 cyclists treated in the same month in 2022.

Approximately half of these individuals received care through the hospital's short stay unit or were admitted to a hospital ward, while one patient's condition warranted intensive care unit (ICU) treatment.

The majority of presentations (48 people) were male and the average age of those affected was 39.

This surge follows a series of bike accidents that have recently occurred across the city, reflecting a need for heightened awareness.

Associate Professor Mark Putland, Head of Emergency Medicine at the RMH, noted that the severity of these cases varied. He reiterated the importance of staying safe on the road for both cyclists and motorists.

"We're seeing a concerning rise in the number of cyclists presenting to our ED," A/Prof Putland said.

"Our reminder to the community is to ride safe, follow road traffic rules and to always wear protective gear, such as a helmet - and for drivers and other road users to look hard for bikes and to remember just what a catastrophic impact a split second can have on multiple families."

The RMH remains dedicated to providing exemplary care to all patients, and these statistics serve as a reminder of the need to prioritise cyclist safety within our community.