Failings in orthopaedic services

What happened

Mrs T was involved in a road accident in 2010 and injured her back. Following the collision, she was under the care of her GP, who referred her for treatment at the spinal department at Torbay Hospital in spring 2011. However, she complained later that year because she felt the Trust had breached the 18‑week rule for referral to treatment set out in the NHS Constitution.

What we found

There were failings in the way the Trust managed Mrs T's treatment. These led to a delay in treatment that breached the 18‑week rule.

Putting it right

The Trust apologised and paid Mrs T £500 compensation for the distress she had suffered.