Case studies

Assistance dogs in the practice image
Assistance dogs in the practice

19 June 2019

After a healthcare assistant was frightened by a patient's assistance dog, a GP at the same practice called the MDU to ask if they could refuse entry to the animal on the basis of hygiene or patient safety.

Building blocks
Successful defence of high value claim

16 July 2018

The MDU defended a GP member in a high value case concerning an alleged failure to refer to hospital for suspected endocarditis.

Hour glass
Alleged delayed diagnosis of testicular cancer

16 July 2018

A 40-year old man brought a claim against his GP for an alleged failure to refer him for suspected testicular cancer

Oxygen canister
Alleged allergic reaction to prescribed antibiotics

16 July 2018

A patient in his late 30s presented to an MDU GP member complaining of a cough that had lasted for two weeks.

Fishing net
Alleged delayed diagnosis of breast cancer

16 July 2018

A patient brought a claim against a GP member alleging delayed diagnosis and failure to identify breast cancer.

Barbell weights
Complications after shoulder surgery

16 July 2018

A patient brought a claim against an MDU member more than two years after having surgery.

Close-up of knot
Delayed diagnosis of hernia strangulation

16 July 2018

A patient with a known right inguinal hernia was seen at an out-of-hours GP unit by an MDU member.

Burning fuse
Disclosure in the public interest

16 July 2018

A GP had been seeing a patient with known mental health issues and a previous history of assaulting a third party.

Playing cards
Mix-up of patient records

16 July 2018

A GP partner called the MDU advice line following the death of a patient.

Mortuary drawers
Pressure to provide a death certificate

16 July 2018

A GP called the MDU advice line after having a difficult conversation with the coroner's officer.