Grandfather dies of a heart attack after GP failed to call back

A CORONER has strongly criticised a GP practice over the death of a patient whose repeated phone calls complaining of chest pain were not returned.

- Lydia Chantler-Hicks

Keith Smith, 75, died from a heart attack after trying for three days to get help from Church Elm Lane Medical Practice in Dagenham. On two of those days the practice said it would call back, but did not do so. A prevention of future deaths report by coroner Graeme Irvine criticised the “chaotic” and “unprofessional” handling of Mr Smith’s calls.

The practice says it has recruited “more qualified staff” since his death, but health and social care regulator the Care Quality Commission is investigating whether it needs to take action.