A Medical Practice, Lanarkshire NHS Board

Report Number: 
201003835
Report Date: 
21/12/2011

Overview
The complainant (Ms C) raised concerns about the care and treatment provided by her GP Practice (the Practice) over a two-year period in that the Practice failed to act on the 'red flag' symptoms she had of a brain tumour within a reasonable time and diagnose her condition.

Specific complaints and conclusions
The complaints which have been investigated are that:

  • (a) the Practice failed to properly investigate Ms C's symptoms within a reasonable time; (upheld) and
  • (b) the failure by the Practice to diagnose Ms C's condition was not reasonable (upheld).

 

Redress and recommendations
The Ombudsman recommends that the Practice:

  • (i) review their practice to ensure they refer for specialist advice within a reasonable time;
  • (ii) ensure their record-keeping complies with General Medical Council guidance;
  • (iii) update their knowledge of diagnosis and management of persistent upper limb symptoms; and
  • (iv) apologise to Ms C for the failures identified.

 

The Practice have accepted the recommendations and will act on them accordingly.