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My parent's care

Posted By crocodilexw73

"My parent's care"

About: Albany Health Campus / Scope Room

(as a carer),

My parent has a history of heart attacks and Barrett's esophagus, they were informed by the surgeon performing an endoscopy that they don't usually bother with people my parent's age, I believe referring to the endoscopy.

I felt this caused my parent significant distress, given the implications of the doctor's comment, as they were testing to see if the cells had become pre-cancerous, also given my parent's presenting symptoms are identical for a heart attack and Barrett's episode.

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Responses

Response from Dr Barbara King, Director of Medical Services, Albany Health Campus 3 years ago
Dr Barbara King
Director of Medical Services,
Albany Health Campus

Submitted on 17/03/2021 at 12:19 PM
Published on Care Opinion at 12:24 PM

Dear crocodilexw73,

Thank you for sharing your experience at Albany Health Campus. This does sound like a distressing situation. I have discussed this with our Clinical Lead of General Surgery who expressed disappointment and surprise should one of the surgeons have spoken that way. Your feedback will be shared at the next surgical team meeting to serve as a reminder of the potential impact of our words and the importance of good communication.

For all procedures including endoscopies, we must assess the risks of the procedure and the anaesthetic or sedation and weigh this against the potential benefits to the health and well-being of the patient. Certainly, there is evidence to indicate that surveillance endoscopy should be ceased in patients that are advanced in age as the risks can begin to outweigh the benefits. Review and consultation should occur between the patient and doctor prior to the procedure so that patients are informed and empowered to make decisions about their health and goals of care.

I would value learning more about the discussion that occurred with your parent if you or they would like to discuss this further. If you are happy to contact me, please call me on 9892 2647.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Kind regards

Dr Barbara King

Director of Medical Services, Albany Health Campus

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