Tragic loss leads to review of GP practice

Our complaints advocates supported Ms X’s complaint about the care of her father, Mr A. 

After running into the GP surgery with severe chest pains, sweating and yellow in colour, Mr A was told to attend A&E and show the slip given to him by the GP.  

Leaving the surgery in his minibus with his elderly mother, he planned to go to A&E 
after finishing his work. Mr A suffered a massive heart attack at the wheel, crashing into a wall.   

He sadly died at the scene.  

Following a review by the Deputy Medical Director - Primary Care & Community, the Health Board issued their findings:  

• The GP’s practice was outside of what is recommended by NICE Guidance CG 95.
• Advice re 999 ambulance when a patient presents with an acute emergency needs to be reiterated to all GP practices.
• The advice to patients around driving when systemically unwell will be reiterated to all GP practices and
• The need to document a complete set of observations

At Llais, we hope these recommendations will improve care and support for seriously unwell people. 

Do you need support navigating a complaint about your care, or that of a loved one? 

To speak to our complaints advocates, contact your nearest Llais team.