Nottingham Mum Launches Legal Action after Being Discharged From A&E Twice With Undiagnosed Spinal Condition
A Nottingham mother is pursuing legal action against Sherwood Forest hospitals after being sent home from A&E twice despite presenting with “red flag” symptoms of a rare spinal condition. Hayley Combe, now lives with constant pain and important limitations following decompression surgery to address the condition, which impacted her independence and ability to participate in everyday activities.
Combe’s condition prevents her from joining in family activities like visiting National trust properties or going on walks. “I can’t thank enough the doctors who performed my decompression surgery but I now live with constant pain. I’ve had to adapt to new limitations, both physically and emotionally,” she said. “My independence has been affected and I rely on aids and support to manage daily life. Even things many people take for granted such as playing with the kids and going out to work are a challenge.”
She is seeking answers regarding potential delays in diagnosis. “I know I can’t change what’s happened but the least I feel I deserve is answers. I wont to know whether more could have done to diagnose my condition sooner, and if so, would an earlier diagnosis have prevented the issues I now have to live with?”
Julianne Moore, a medical negligence lawyer at Irwin Mitchell representing Ms. Combe, stated, “What Hayley has gone through has not only been incredibly traumatic for her but also her family.” moore highlighted the concerning nature of Combe’s twice-presented “red flag symptoms” to hospital staff.
Dr. Simon Roe,chief medical officer at Sherwood Forest Hospitals,acknowledged the case. “We are sorry to hear of Hayley’s experiences at Sherwood Forest Hospitals.As legal action is underway, we are currently unable to comment on the specific details of this case. However, we work hard to maintain high standards and provide the best possible care for all our patients and are committed to continuously improving the quality and safety of the care that we provide. we value all opportunities to learn from examples where we have not delivered care to the high standards that we set ourselves.”
