A heartbreaking story has emerged from Rhuddlan where a 91-year-old man, David Edward Roberts, was found dead just hours after being discharged from Glan Clwyd Hospital. His family has filed a formal complaint against Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, questioning the care and discharge procedures that David endured.
David was taken to A&E due to alarming blood test results but ended up waiting two nights without a proper bed. Despite suffering from multiple health issues, he was left to wait in unsuitable conditions. His family pleaded for more appropriate accommodations, but their concerns seemed to fall on deaf ears.
After finally being seen by a doctor, a decision was made to keep him in the hospital due to his vulnerable condition. However, with no beds available, he was left in a wheelchair near the toilets. Eventually, David was discharged albeit without sufficient aftercare or support, despite his family urging that he would be alone.
Tragically, the following day, David was found unresponsive at home and subsequently passed away. The family demands a thorough investigation into the care David received, stressing that his age and medical conditions required greater safeguards which were not provided.
In light of this distressing incident, the health board has extended their condolences but refrained from commenting on specifics due to patient confidentiality. The family insists on clarity regarding the risk assessments made before David’s release and seeks affirmation that such a situation will not be repeated.
This incident comes on the heels of another shocking event at the same hospital, where an elderly woman reportedly died in the corridor. With the health board in special measures, questions are mounting about patient care standards.
Our thoughts are with David’s family during this challenging time, and here’s hoping for significant improvements in patient care soon.