Overview
The complainant (Mrs C) raised a number of concerns about the care and treatment of her husband (Mr C) at a number of hospitals in Greater Glasgow between June 2004 and his death from mesothelioma in September 2004. Mrs C complained that Mr C was not given information about his prognosis and delays occurred which prevented his being given any useful treatment.
Specific complaint and conclusion
The complaint which has been investigated is that Greater Glasgow and Clyde NHS Board (the Board) failed to provide Mr C with timely and appropriate care and treatment between June and September 2004 (partially upheld).
Redress and recommendations
The Ombudsman recommends that the Board:
- (i) apologise to Mrs C for communication failures;
- (ii) consider using the events of this complaint to inform practise in communicating with patients affected by cancer; particularly when a number of different specialists are involved in care; and
- (iii) gives consideration to improving written recording of discussions with patients and their elatives especially in situations where there are a number of clinicians involved in delivering care.
The Board have accepted the recommendations and will act on them accordingly.