Decision Report 201802816

Summary

Mr C was referred for orthotics and fitted with insoles. He attended a follow-up appointment with a private consultant as his symptoms were not improving and was diagnosed with anterior impingement syndrome (compression of the bone or soft tissue). After the consultation Mr C decided surgery was his preferred option. Mr C's GP subsequently referred him to the orthopaedics department (specialists in the treatment of diseases and injuries of the musculoskeletal system) at Hairmyres Hospital. His referral was refused as consultants considered that he was receiving appropriate first line care already. Mr C was unhappy with his treatment and told us that, had consultants acted on the report of the private consultant, he would have had surgery much earlier and his pain and suffering would not have gone on for so long.

We took independent medical advice from a clinical adviser who is experienced in orthopaedics. We found that Mr C was treated in accordance with guidelines and that conservative treatment was the appropriate response. It is not uncommon for medical professionals to have different views on treatment, but that the board's treatment following the GP's referral was appropriate. We did not uphold the complaint.