Mrs D complained about not getting treatment from the Trust after being diagnosed with cancer. She said that as a consequence of the Trust's failings, she suffered distress and was concerned her life expectancy had been affected.
What happened
Mrs D's GP referred her to the Trust because of rectal bleeding. A consultant found a mass in her rectum, and a scan showed that this was cancer. Three months later, the Trust had still to decide on the best course of treatment. Mrs D sought a second opinion from another trust and, within a few weeks, started immediate treatment for her cancer.
What we found
We partly upheld this complaint. As Mrs D had a complex medical history, delaying treatment was appropriate in order for the Trust to obtain specialist advice and to consider her suitability for surgery. However, as a consequence of administrative and medical failings, the Trust took too long to get the specialist advice.
Taking account of available research into the impact of delays in the treatment of rectal cancer, it is unlikely that the delays Mrs D experienced had a significant impact on her life expectancy. However, Mrs D suffered worry and anxiety as a consequence of the delays.
Putting it right
The Trust acknowledged its failings and apologised for the injustice Mrs D suffered as a consequence of these. It paid her compensation of £500, and produced an action plan to prevent the failings from happening again.
Medway NHS Foundation Trust
Medway
Not applicable
Apology
Compensation for financial loss
Recommendation to learn lessons or draw up an action plan