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Case ref:201900587
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Date:July 2020
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Body:A Medical Practice in the Fife NHS Board area
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Sector:Health
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Outcome:Not upheld, no recommendations
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Subject:clinical treatment / diagnosis
Summary
C complained about the care and treatment provided to their late spouse (A) by the practice. A had reported symptoms of excessive wind, bloating, nausea and loss of appetite. A was later diagnosed with metastatic melanoma (skin cancer that has spread). C complained that the practice delayed in carrying out an appropriate assessment of A's symptoms and that they failed to follow up on A's treatment and referrals. The practice considered that A was seen promptly following triage and that according to the Scottish Referral Guidelines, A did not warrant an urgent referral based on their symptoms at the time.
We took independent advice from a GP. We found that the assessment of A's symptoms was appropriate and the relevant guidelines for suspected cancer were followed appropriately by the practice. We also found that the referral for an urgent endoscopy (a procedure whereby a flexible tube with a camera is used to view the organs inside the body) was timely and appropriate. We did not uphold the complaint.