Benedict Peters
16 May 2023 · Coroner Chris Morris · Manchester South
The coroner's concerns
1. discharge without medical review
“It is a matter of concern that despite the patient's reported symptoms, in view of his age and extensive family history of cardiac problems, Mr [name redacted] was discharged from the Ambulatory Care Unit without being examined / reviewed in person by a doctor.”
2. absence of discharge policy
“It is a further matter of concern that (according to the evidence of [REDACTED] , Consultant [name redacted]) no policy or protocol exists within the Trust as to when patients may or may not be discharged from the Ambulatory Care Unit without a medical review taking place.”
Responses
2023-0156-Response-from-Manchester-University-NHS-Foundation-Trust.pdf ↗· Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust
Stated action
“We will remind all our PAs of the need to discuss patients for discharge with senior medical colleagues and reiterate to all junior medical staff and non-medical clinical practitioners, that it remains good practice to discuss cases with their seniors for learning and development.”