Investigation and inquest
On 23 September 2021 I commenced an investigation into the death of Olivia Amy RUSSELL aged 25. The investigation concluded at the end of the inquest on 6 December 2023. The conclusion of the inquest was one of suicide.
Circumstances of the death
Olivia Russell had a history of anxiety which was initial managed without medication. In October 2020 she contacted your surgery and discussed options to treat her anxiety as this had worsened. She initially decided against anti-depressants but subsequently had another appointment on 2 November where she opted for a 10mg dose of citalopram. Following a period of apparent stability, Olivia stopped taking her medication in or around June 2021 without consulting a GP, subsequently suffering a relapse and re-starting her medication in August 2021. Sadly, Olivia took her own life on 19 September 2021.
Coroner’s concerns
During the inquiry, evidence was heard from ████████, one of your salaried GPs as to his interactions with Olivia, and based on the records, his colleagues’ interactions. There was no evidence within the notes that the risk of relapse if a medication is stopped was discussed in either November 2020 or August 2021, nor is there evidence that Olivia was told she may feel worse before she feels better. I did not find that this advice was not given, simply that I could not say either way.
When asked, ████████ evidence was that you would discuss the risks when prescribing the drug, but was not entirely clear as to which risks he would discuss, and gave evidence that it is likely each GP has a different approach, bearing in mind the time limitations of the appointment. He could not say with confidence that every GP within the practice was discussing these key risks.
A copy of the relevant NICE guidance was provided to me which states that these risks should be discussed with the patient, and I look specifically at sections 1.3.1 and 1.5.2 as a minimum. I am concerned that this guidance is not being followed as a matter of routine within the surgery and that this gives rise to a risk of future deaths.
I am also concerned that a significant event meeting (acknowledging I may have the name of this review meaning incorrect) has not yet taken place, despite Olivia’s death being over 2 years ago. The evidence of ████████ was that this will take place after the inquest and I am concerned that, if this is the practice following all deaths, there is a risk that learning from deaths will be delayed or missed.