Overview
- A PHSO report published on December 4 found a "worrying lack of accountability" at the Trust, citing failures in communication, record-keeping, and engagement with the family.
- William "Syd" Chapman, 58, learned he had pulmonary fibrosis only when his GP mentioned it during a phone call, and he died eight months later in 2022.
- Investigators said a junior doctor wrongly reassured him in September 2021, and a consultant noted the diagnosis to the GP in November without informing the patient or sharing the letter.
- The Ombudsman identified no failings in clinical care but criticised poor complaints handling, including a response that took over a year and inadequate acknowledgement of harm.
- The Trust accepted the findings, issued an apology, started service and record-keeping improvements, and paid £1,200 to Mr Chapman's wife.