Overview
The complainant (Ms C) visited the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh (the Hospital)'s Accident and Emergency department suffering from chest and arm pain. She was examined and sent home, being told that an existing stomach complaint was the most likely cause of her symptoms. Two days later she suffered a myocardial infarction. Ms C feels that the tests carried out by Lothian NHS Board (the Board) were insufficiently thorough and that her concerns regarding her family medical history of heart problems were not taken seriously.
Specific complaints and conclusions
The complaints which have been investigated are that:
- (a) the Board failed to diagnose Ms C's condition (not upheld); and
- (b) staff in the Gastrointestinal Department of the Hospital were dismissive of Ms C's concerns during the diagnostic process (not upheld).
Redress and recommendations
The Ombudsman has no recommendations to make.