Delayed Treatment of Coronary Heart Disease

Background

Mr T was known to suffer from Type 2 diabetes. He consulted his GP complaining of breathlessness and a cough, and was prescribed a five-day course of amoxicillin. His condition did not improve and he returned to see the GP, who arranged for him to be admitted via A&E at the local hospital. At hospital he underwent an ECG and CT angiogram, which disclosed severe coronary heart disease. Mr T was therefore transferred to the local cardiothoracic centre.

Following transfer, Mr T underwent a further CT cardiac angiogram and echogram which confirmed the diagnosis. He was listed for coronary artery bypass graft. However, a week later he became unwell. He then suffered a cardiac arrest and resuscitation was unsuccessful.

This delayed treatment claim was pursued on the basis that it was negligent of the GP not to have referred Mr T to hospital when he first saw him and prescribed amoxicillin. Had Mr T been referred at that stage, he would have undergone the appropriate investigations earlier and the coronary artery bypass graft would have taken place before he suffered the fatal heart attack.

Settlement

Medical negligence claim proceedings were issued because the Defendant initially denied both breach of duty and causation. However, it settled fairly soon after proceedings had been issued for £62,500, which included the bereavement award of £12,980 and £5,000 for general damages for pain and suffering.

This case was led by Corrina Mottram.

NOTE: While our case studies are designed to give an indication of the outcomes that can be achieved in these circumstances, the compensation awarded in individual cases can vary significantly due to a range of factors, including effects on life expectancy, the severity of the negligence that took place, and the financial impact.