Episode 13: Wound Feuds

About this episode

The episode explores the controversial practices of Dr. Jayant Patel and the ensuing outrage from patients in Bundaberg, Australia.

Hedley traces Dr Jayant Patel’s roots in Jamnagar, where former colleagues describe an autocratic surgeon whose unchecked ego foreshadowed disaster.  Meanwhile in Australia, police weigh a slow extradition as outrage builds among Bundaberg patients. The inquiry hears harrowing nurse testimony about filthy practices and a culture that punished whistleblowers. Do you know more? Contact Hedley Thomas and the team at sicktodeath@theaustralian.com.au Subscribers hear new episodes of Sick to Death first. Listen at sicktodeathpodcast.com , in The Australian’s app or search for “Sick to Death” on Apple Podcasts to connect your subscription. Plus, get exclusive access to photos, videos, timelines, and more at the website. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

People in this episode

Host: Hedley Thomas

Topics covered

• medical malpractice
• surgery
• whistleblowing
• legal issues
• patient safety
• healthcare culture

Keywords

• Dr Jayant Patel
• Bundaberg
• medical inquiry
• nurse testimony
• whistleblower culture
• surgery scandal

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Bundaberg, Sick to Death, The Australian

Places: Jamnagar, Australia

More episodes of Sick to Death

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• Bonus Episode 4: The Waiting Game · April 9, 2026 · 1h 10m
• Episode 14: Payback · March 13, 2026 · 54 min
• Episode 15: The Collapse · March 13, 2026 · 59 min
• Episode 16: Dear Dr Patel · March 13, 2026 · 53 min
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