Overview
The complainant (Mrs C) raised a number of concerns that there had been unacceptable delays by Forth Valley NHS Board (the Board) in arranging follow up for her husband (Mr C) and a consequent failure to provide any treatment for him following his diagnosis of cancer.
Specific complaints and conclusions
The complaints which have been investigated are that the Board:
- (a) did not arrange timely follow-up to Mr C (upheld); and
- (b) did not provide Mr C with treatment following his diagnosis of cancer (not upheld).
Redress and recommendations
In light of the action taken by the Board the Ombudsman recommends that the Board make a written apology to Mrs C for the delays in arranging the follow-up appointment and requests that they send a copy of the finalised policy on Patient Access to this office.
The Board have accepted the recommendations and will act on them accordingly.