A judge has lambasted a Marton doctor for substandard care of a Horowhenua schoolteacher's breast cancer.
Catherine Purdie, of Sanson, subsequently underwent surgery to have her left breast removed.
In a written judgment, District Court Judge Martin Beattie said GP Katrina Harper committed acts and omissions between January 21 and March 2000 that were inexcusable, and constituted a substandard level of care.
Judge Beattie overturned an ACC review decision, ruling that Mrs Purdie was entitled to compensation for medical misadventure. Dr Harper was ordered to pay costs of $2000.
In 1999, Mrs Purdie saw Dr Harper about swelling under her armpit. A mammogram showed no malignancy.
In September, the swelling had grown, and Dr Harper referred Mrs Purdie, then 53, for a routine assessment at Palmerston North Hospital. Her appointment was for May 5, 2000.
By January 21, 2000, Mrs Purdie's breast was showing clear signs of cancer, indicating the need for urgency.
On January 27, Dr Harper wrote seeking an earlier appointment, but sent the letter to Good Health Wanganui instead of the hospital.
Mrs Purdie saw Dr Harper again on March 8, reporting more changes, but by then, Judge Beattie said, the damage had been done.
- NZPA
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