"I consider the cumulative effect of these factors and missed opportunities demonstrates a clear pattern of poor care, attributable to SDHB as the overall service provider," commissioner Morag McDowell said. Eleven days later the surgeon found a "significant mass" on the rectal wall, and rectal cancer was later diagnosed. "What was more important, as has been outlined, was that the normal digital rectal examinations did not exclude rectal cancer, and further investigation was warranted." SDHB chief executive Chris Fleming said that the board accepted the HDC’s finding and deeply regretted the missed opportunities for diagnosis. This is the second similar adverse HDC report into care at an SDHB emergency department in recent months.

Source: Otago Daily Times June 14, 2022 01:24 UTC