Mr C complained about the care provided to his late father, Mr A, by his GP Practice (“the Practice”). Specifically, the investigation considered whether there were any missed opportunities to diagnose and treat his late father Mr A’s cancer between October 2023 and 5 October 2024 when a diagnosis was made. It also considered whether appropriate investigations should have been carried out to confirm diverticulitis.
The investigation found that there were missed opportunities to diagnose and treat Mr A’s cancer from December 2023 onwards and that the diagnosis of diverticulitis should have been reviewed and investigations considered. The Ombudsman upheld both complaints.
The Ombudsman recommended the Practice provide Mr C and the family with a written apology for the failings identified by the Ombudsman’s investigation. It should also obtain written agreement from the GP to discuss this case at their next annual appraisal and hold a significant event analysis meeting to reflect on the Ombudsman’s report and provide the Ombudsman with any learning identified.