Decision Report 202005840

Summary

C has Asperger's Syndrome (a form of autism, in which people may find difficulty in social relationships and in communicating) / Autistic Spectrum Disorder and a diagnosis of chronic fatigue and Functional Neurological Symptom Disorder (symptoms in the body which appear to be caused by problems in the nervous system but which are not caused by a physical neurological disease or disorder). They were referred by their GP to neurology (specialists in the nervous system) to explore a possible neurological basis for their pain symptoms. C raised a number of concerns about this consultation. C complained that no meaningful assessment took place, that the conclusions were unreasonable and that the consultant neurologist wrongly stated a psychiatric opinion by stating that they had a complex personality disorder. C also noted that there were inaccuracies in the board's response to their complaint.

The board responded to C's individual concerns and concluded that overall, they considered the assessment was reasonable.

We reviewed the relevant medical records, evidence provided by C and took independent advice from a consultant neurologist adviser. We found that there were not any significant failings and that the assessment was of a reasonable standard, consistent with General Medical Council guidelines and that the reasons for the referral were reasonably addressed. We did not uphold the complaint.