Overview
The complainant (Mr C) was referred to an orthopaedic consultant (Consultant 1) at Ninewells Hospital for treatment to his knee and foot. Before a date for surgery could be arranged, personal circumstances meant that Consultant 1 had to take an extended period of absence from work, at short notice. Mr C complained that his surgery was unacceptably delayed, as Tayside NHS Board (the Board) did not make adequate arrangements to progress the treatment of Consultant 1’s patients during his absence.
Specific complaint and conclusion
The complaint which has been investigated is that Mr C was subjected to an unacceptably long wait for operations on his foot and knee (not upheld).
Redress and recommendation
The Ombudsman recommends that the Board considers Mr C’s overall treatment plan, and the time taken up by administration, when reviewing their procedures in line with the Scottish Government’s revised waiting time targets.
The Board have accepted the recommendation and will act on it accordingly.