Decision Report 201304154

Summary

Miss C had major surgery on her bowel, and complained to us about the treatment she received after the surgery, which she thought was inadequate, and about the handling of her out-patient appointments.

During our investigation, we took independent advice from a consultant general and colorectal surgeon, following which we did not uphold Miss C's complaint. The adviser said that, although Miss C had not been seen personally by the doctor who carried out the surgery, she was seen in his clinic by his representative. The adviser was satisfied that the action taken was consistent with good practice. He also said that Miss C's medical records confirmed that the doctor offered reasonable treatment following the surgery and discussed the treatment options open to Miss C, including further surgery. It was unfortunate that some of Miss C's out-patient appointments were rescheduled and that this added to her concern about the level of aftercare she was receiving, but we noted that the board had already apologised to her for this.