HSE apologises over death of man following hospital discharge

The HSE has unreservedly apologised at the High Court to the family of a 65-year-old man who collapsed and died two days after being discharged from Kerry General Hospital with an undiagnosed heart problem.

In the apology, Kerry General Hospital manager TJ O'Connor said the hospital has learned lessons from the case of Timothy Buckley, who was treated for six days at the hospital before being discharged.

“We are very sorry for the tragic loss that you and your family have endured,” the statement, read by Declan Buckley SC for the HSE, said.

“I appreciate that it is scant consolation for you but please be assured that we have learned lessons from this case.

“Please also be assured of our ongoing support and help should you require it at any stage in the future.”

Settlement

The apology was part of the settlement of an action by Mr Buckley’s widow Patricia against the HSE over the care of her husband at the hospital in December 2012, after he was referred there with severe lower mid-chest pain..

Ms Buckley, of Sylvia’s View, Doon East, Ballybunion, Co Kerry, had sued the HSE, alleging failure to properly treat and diagnose Mr Buckley and discharging him when it was inappropriate to do so.

Mr Justice Kevin Cross was told liability was recently admitted in the case and it was before the court for assessment of damages only.