Folkestone Magistrates Court 2 June 2014 at 10.30am
Morrisons Solicitors LLP is instructed by the family of Herbert Chandler (dec’d).
Herbert known as ‘Jim’, who lived in Cranbrook, Kent was admitted to the William Harvey Hospital on the 17 January 2013 with breathing difficulties. He died aged 85, on the 22 January 2013 following a procedure which had been carried out on the wrong lung.
This is known as a ‘never event’ which is defined by the NHS as ‘very serious, largely preventable patient safety incident that should not occur if the relevant preventative measures have been put in place’.
The family have always sought to use the inquest process to enable them to understand what when wrong during Jim’s hospital stay, and allow the Coroner to consider how such an occurrence could be prevented in the future.
The family left Jim on the evening of the 22 January 2013, aware he was to undergo a procedure to help his breathing. Several hours later around 11pm they were called to inform them that Jim was seriously unwell and they should return to the hospital immediately. Upon arrival they were told that an error had occurred which had led directly to his sudden death.
As the investigations progressed and the more the family were told about the events that had occurred they realised they need expert legal advice to understand the process and represent them. Edward Ramsay of 12 KBW assisted the family in cross-examining the witnesses called by the Coroner.
The Coroner having now heard all the evidence and legal submissions on behalf of the family, the trust and the Dr’s legal representatives will spend a period of time considering her conclusion. The date for delivery of the conclusion will be notified to all parties in due course.
The family hope this will provide some closure on the sudden and traumatic loss of their father; and prevent other families and patients suffering in similar circumstances in the future.
For further information please contact Morrisons Solicitors LLP.