Case study delayed treatment of coronary heart disease
The case:

Delayed Treatment of Coronary Heart Disease

Last Updated: 26th Apr 2024
Settlement:
£62,500
Delayed Treatment Claims

A lack of urgent action from Mr T’s GP sadly resulted in a fatal heart attack, as he was too unwell to undergo treatment by the time he was referred to hospital. See how we settled his claim despite the Defendants initially denying responsibility.

Corrina Mottram - Medical Solicitor and Partner at Gadsby Wicks
Solicitor and Partner
Corrina Mottram

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.

If you have been affected by similar events to those outlined here, we can help seek justice on your behalf.

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