A Wellington coroner has criticised a doctor for an "unacceptable delay" in providing the medical history of a man who died from heart disease associated with heavy drinking.
Coroner Ian Smith was also critical of the Medical Council after it failed to inform the court what action had been taken against the doctor after a complaint was made.
Thomas Thomas, 53, was found dead in his home at Titahi Bay near Wellington on September 7, 2008. Mr Smith found he died of cardiac arrhythmia associated with heavy alcohol consumption.
He first wrote to Mr Thomas' general practitioner, Nurmaliah Gaus, asking for a medical history on March 9 last year. After four letters had been sent without a reply, Mr Smith complained to the council, which replied on August 9. After two more letters Dr Gaus finally provided the required notes and reports, a year after being first asked.
Doctor criticised for delay
Photo / Supplied.
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