SPSO (Scottish Public Services Ombudsman) Not Upheld

Forth Valley NHS Board

201205355 · Health › communication, staff attitude, dignity, confidentiality · Decision date: 01 August 2013 · View NHS Forth Valley scorecard

Full Decision

Summary

Mr C, who is a prisoner, was told by a prison officer that he was to attend an appointment at the prison health centre. The doctor wanted to review Mr C's 'medically unfit' status. Mr C said that he was not well enough to go to the appointment and asked the prison officer to tell the health centre. After this, Mr C complained that he had to pass information about his health to the prison officer, which he felt was inappropriate.

During our investigation, the health board explained to us that prison staff are responsible for the movement of prisoners around the different areas of the prison. That includes taking prisoners to the health centre for appointments. In addition, the board confirmed that prisoners are required to let prison staff know when they feel unwell. They advised that prisoners do not need to explain to staff why they are unwell.

In light of the information provided, we were satisfied that what happened in Mr C's case was appropriate and we did not uphold his complaint.

Related reading

View Decision Report 201205355 as a PDF (11.13 KB) Updated: March 13, 2018