Key Takeaways:
- Nataly Vitreras, a Chilean national, developed a rare blood clot in her brain while living in New Zealand on a work visa.
- The cause of the clot is still being investigated by ACC, with Vitreras claiming it may be related to her use of the contraceptive pill Cerazette.
- Vitreras has been unable to work and has been experiencing financial and emotional distress while waiting for the investigation to conclude.
- ACC has been criticized for the slow pace of the investigation, with Vitreras waiting over four months for a decision.
- Vitreras has been diagnosed with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and has been struggling to access proper follow-up care due to the cost.
Introduction to Nataly Vitreras’ Story
Nataly Vitreras, a Chilean national, was living in New Zealand on a work visa when she experienced a medical emergency in Queenstown on June 28. She was rushed to Dunedin Hospital, where doctors confirmed she had a cerebral venous sinus thrombosis, a rare blood clot in her brain. Vitreras had started taking the contraceptive pill Cerazette shortly before she became ill, and ACC is now investigating whether it could be related to the cause of the clot. The investigation has been ongoing for over four months, leaving Vitreras stuck in limbo and unable to work.
The Investigation and Its Challenges
The investigation into Vitreras’ case has been complex, with ACC’s head of service operations, Phil Riley, stating that treatment injury claims can be more complex than typical physical injury claims. Riley acknowledged that the wait has been difficult for Vitreras, particularly as she has been unable to work and has been experiencing financial hardship. ACC relies on medical professionals providing detailed clinical information, and the current pressures on the health sector have affected how quickly this happens. In Vitreras’ case, ACC is waiting on one final specialist report before making a decision.
The Emotional Toll on Vitreras
The experience has taken a significant toll on Vitreras’ mental and physical health. She has been diagnosed with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) by her GP and a psychologist, and has been experiencing near-constant headaches. Vitreras has been relying on financial help from her parents in Chile and her partner in New Zealand, and has been unable to return home due to her condition. She has also been unable to access proper follow-up care due to the cost, and has been feeling lost and frustrated with the system.
The Cause of the Clot and Contraception
The cause of the clot is still unclear, but Dr. Emma Jackson, NZ vice president of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG), stated that published evidence suggests there is no increased risk of a blood clot while taking the progesterone pill (mini pill). However, the combined pill does increase the risk of a blood clot, although the risk is greater during pregnancy. Jackson urged anyone with concerns to see their health provider, and emphasized that women on the mini pill or any contraception should feel comfortable taking it.
ACC’s Response and Support
ACC has been in regular contact with Vitreras to ensure she knows what’s happening to her claim. However, Vitreras has been critical of the slow pace of the investigation, and has been struggling to access support while waiting for a decision. ACC suggested Vitreras speak to her GP, as there may be other agencies that can provide support. Vitreras has started a Givealittle to raise funds for an MRI scan, private neurology consultation, and living expenses while recovering.
Conclusion and Next Steps
In conclusion, Nataly Vitreras’ experience highlights the challenges and complexities of navigating the ACC system, particularly in cases where the cause of an injury is unclear. The investigation into her case has been ongoing for over four months, and Vitreras is still waiting for a decision. As she continues to struggle with the emotional and financial toll of her condition, it is essential that ACC provides timely and effective support to ensure she can access the care and resources she needs to recover.