Investigation reports

This investigation found that the system for communicating with patients on healthcare waiting lists is in ‘disarray’, and concluded that significant and repeated failures across the system amounted to ‘systemic maladministration’.

It urged the Department of Health to work with Health Trusts, GPs and others to address the failings.

We found that a medical assessment performed during a home visit was carried out in line with good medical practice, but that the GP should have recorded what had been discussed with the patient and her family, and what they should do if her symptoms did not improve.

A report by the Ombudsman has criticised elements of the care provided to a patient by Spire Independent Healthcare, based in Blackpool (Lancashire). The patient was referred to Spire under a waiting list initiative operated by the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust.