“GP Survival responds to Birmingham Coroners’ concern over Asthma death”
GPs have reacted with concern over the coroner’s verdict recently regarding the tragic death of Sydney Neil. Asthma is a life threatening condition and in this case led to the death of an 11 year old.
According to details reported in the press, she was seen at her GP surgery without delay and given immediate treatment. When further deterioration occurred, emergency services were called rapidly. During the 30 minute wait for a 999 ambulance, resuscitation attempts were undertaken. These were in line with the expected pre-hospital care in GP settings.
It was recognised at the inquest by Consultant Satish Rao that Sydney needed advanced treatment only available in hospital.
GP Survival’s Media Lead Dr Zoe Norris says “This is a reminder of the seriousness of asthma in apparently healthy children. But it is deeply concerning that the coroner, Mrs Louise Hunt, seems to be suggesting that the GP surgery involved provided less than expected care regarding resuscitation. The techniques that this little girl needed are only provided by hospital teams. There are wide implications in terms of training, costs and how to keep doctors skills at the correct level for these rare events.”
She added “If it is Mrs Hunt’s intention that all GPs across the UK should be proficient in the advanced airways techniques that Sydney Neil needed, she must be aware of the current limited NHS resources and the impact this will have on them. GPs are not an emergency service in terms of access or treatment – we work with our colleagues in the ambulance service and hospital to provide this. All GPs undertake Resuscitation Council UK life support as part of their compulsory training.”
GP Survival members have signed a statement of concern regarding recent cases where health professionals have been prosecuted for manslaughter. To see our post click here.
For further information, or to arrange an interview, please contact:
Dr Zoe Norris, Media Lead
campaigngpsurvival@gmail.com
https://twitter.com/cgps_gp
https://www.facebook.com/GPstateofemergency