Mr S was told by Trust he had a terminal illness and would not be able to stand having invasive treatment. But he got a second opinion and made a full recovery.
What happened
Mr S was in his eighties when he was diagnosed with lung cancer. The Trust did not consider him suitable for treatment but he obtained a second opinion which said he could have radiotherapy. Mr S made a full recovery.
What we found
The Trust did not follow relevant guidance for determining a patient's general well–being or activities of daily life, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guidelines, or established good practice. Mr S suffered considerable shock and anguish at being given a prognosis of terminal illness.
Putting it right
The Trust acknowledged the failings and apologised to Mr S. It reviewed and took necessary action regarding its planned treatment of lung cancer, and also regarding its multidisciplinary team meetings. The doctor acknowledged her failings to follow established good clinical practice and apologised to Mr S for the distress and anxiety caused.
Warrington and Halton Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Warrington
Did not take sufficient steps to improve service
Apology
Recommendation to learn lessons or draw up an action plan