Overview
The complainant (Miss C) raised a number of concerns about her late father's (Mr A) prostate cancer diagnosis. This included Mr A's concerns at being advised that he did not have prostate cancer resulting in his treatment being stopped. Miss C was also dissatisfied with the lack of information and support given to Mr A and the family about the diagnosis, prognosis and side effects of the treatment.
Specific complaints and conclusions
The complaints which have been investigated are that Lothian NHS Board (the Board):
- (a) did not provide reasonable care and treatment to Mr A from May 2011 onwards (upheld);
- (b) unreasonably withheld information about his condition from Mr A and his family (upheld); and
- (c) did not reasonably handle Miss C's complaint (upheld).
Redress and recommendations
The Ombudsman recommends that the Board:
- review their prostate cancer guidance to ensure it is consistent with national guidelines for the management of patients with widespread prostate cancer when a biopsy is not indicated;
- ensure timely involvement by a specialist cancer nurse shortly after diagnosis of prostate cancer;
- ensure Doctor 4 discusses the failings identified in this report at his next appraisal;
- ensure clinical staff clearly record any verbal responses they provide to patient correspondence;
- apologise to Miss C and the family for the failings identified in this report; and
- ensure that complaint responses are consistent, accurate and set out in a structured manner.