Ms A complained about the delayed diagnosis of her sister’s oesophageal cancer, which sadly led to her death. She was concerned that despite repeated visits to the Practice complaining of pain, the cancer was diagnosed far too late for any effective treatment and management. She felt that there had been inadequate GP involvement and was concerned about the Practice’s efforts at arranging radiological investigations. Ms A complained that even when her sister presented in January 2022 with swallowing difficulties and significant weight loss, a doctor did not become involved in her care.
The investigation found that the care and treatment provided by the Practice had been appropriate, which included the input of non-GP healthcare professionals. Whilst the presentation in January 2022 could have led to an earlier suspected cancer referral, this had not been due to inappropriate care on the part of the Practice. The complaint was therefore not upheld.