NHS Grampian has promised to “learn from its failings” in an apology to the widow of an Alzheimer’s patient.
Chief executive Malcolm Wright wrote to Teresa Canale-Parola to say sorry for “significant” problems identified in its care of her husband, John Deighan.
The letter – and major reviews of procedures – were recommended by the Scottish Public Services Ombudsman when he upheld a complaint.
Ms Canale-Parola endured a long battle to secure recognition from the board that it had let down her husband in his final months.
Mr Wright apologised that aspects of Mr Deighan’s care at a specialist dementia ward of Royal Cornhill Hospital were “found to be below acceptable standards” and that “weaknesses were identified” at Glen O’Dee Hospital – where he died not long after being transferred.
“I also apologise sincerely that the complaint investigations failed to identify the failures… and for the further upset and continued concern that the responses you received must have caused you,” he added.
“May I thank you for pursuing your complaint as this has given NHS Grampian the opportunity to learn from our failings and make the necessary changes to ensure we provide a better service.”
Ms Canale-Parola, a care worker who lives in Portlethen, said the apology was as much as she could have hoped for.
“However it still leaves me with a very hollow feeling as it should never have happened in the first place,” she added.
She has joined with the UK-wide John’s Campaign charity which says friends and relatives of those with dementia should enjoy the same open-ended access rights as those visiting children.
A recent move by NHS Grampian to extend visiting hours was welcome, she said, though it still excluded some meal times.