A top civil servant with cancer was described as a ‘dead man walking’ when he was placed on a Covid ward, a crucial inquiry has heard. Andrew Slorance, aged 49, tragically passed away at the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital (QEUH) in Glasgow on December 5, 2020, with his cause of death attributed to Covid-19. Mr. Slorance, a father of five from Edinburgh, was admitted to the hospital in October 2020 for a stem cell transplant due to Mantle Cell Lymphoma, which severely suppressed his immune system. Sadly, he passed away just six weeks later.
During the inquiry into the construction of the QEUH campus, his widow, Louise Slorance, revealed that after testing positive for asymptomatic Covid-19, her husband was moved from a protected area for bone marrow transplant patients to different rooms, including one she described as a ‘general ward’ for Covid patients. Mrs. Slorance shared her concerns about the conditions her husband faced, indicating that he was at high risk due to his weakened immune system.
Despite indications of an ‘atypical pneumonia’ on a CT scan that suggested a possible coinfection like Aspergillus, this was not thoroughly investigated, even during the post-mortem examination. Mrs. Slorance expressed frustration at the lack of transparency and communication from NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHSGGC) about her husband’s care and potential risks. She highlighted several instances where critical information was not shared with her, leaving her feeling uninformed and powerless.
Furthermore, Mrs. Slorance raised issues regarding the reviews conducted by various health boards, pointing out gaps in information and oversight. She emphasized the need for transparency and accountability to prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future. The inquiry also heard from other families who had experienced heartbreaking losses and faced challenges in obtaining answers and justice for their loved ones.
The NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde responded by assuring the public of the safety of their hospitals, referencing rigorous infection control measures in place. They reiterated their commitment to supporting the inquiry in uncovering the truth behind these incidents. The ongoing inquiry, led by Lord Brodie, aims to shed light on the circumstances surrounding these heartbreaking events and ensure accountability for any failings in patient care.
In conclusion, the testimonies shared at the inquiry underscore the importance of transparency, communication, and accountability in healthcare settings. The experiences of these families serve as a powerful reminder of the impact of inadequate care and the enduring need for continuous improvement to safeguard patient safety. As investigations continue and revelations unfold, the hope is that lessons will be learned, reforms implemented, and justice served for those who have suffered unimaginable losses.