Overview
The complainant (Mr C) raised concerns about the time it took to diagnose Mr A with liver cancer.
Specific complaint and conclusion
The complaint which has been investigated is that there was an avoidable delay in diagnosing that Mr A was suffering from liver cancer (upheld).
Redress and recommendations
The Ombudsman recommends that: Fife NHS Board (the Board):
- review their processes for communicating abnormal results to include referral to an appropriate lead clinician in the hospital as well as the referring doctor in light of the Medical Adviser's comments; and
- apologise for the failures identified.
The Board have accepted the recommendations and will act on them accordingly.