Investigation and inquest
I conducted an Inquest into the death of Michelle Roach that was heard at Reading Town Hall between 6th and 9th November 2018. I recorded a narrative conclusion as follows:
Natural causes contributed to by neglect in her clinical management from 0911 hrs on 29th January 2014 until 1807 hrs on 30th January 2014.
Circumstances of the death
The family asked us to refer to the deceased as Michelle at the inquest. I have reflected that request in this report.
I have attached my detailed summing up and conclusions provided at the conclusion of this inquest which sets out the history in detail.
Coroner’s concerns
In relation to GP Management
(1) I believe ████████ should consider reviewing and updating her knowledge in relation to the signs and symptoms of venous thromboembolism.
(2) I believe ████████ should review her record-keeping practices.
(3) The GP practice should review their system for investigating unexpected deaths in order to learn from them and improve clinical management. It should also audit and review ████████ clinical knowledge in this area and her record keeping.
Hospital Management
(1) I consider that the trust should review its level of cover by medical registrars at night. Financial constraints and limits on the numbers of medical registrars available to the trust are frequently matters determined outside of the trust’s immediate control, and, as such, these matters may need to be raised outside the trust.