A FRAIL pensioner with an infectious and potentially fatal superbug was discharged from Barnsley hospital and sent to a care home.
Joan Caves, 76, was tested for c-difficile but taken by ambulance to Greenside House, Mapplewell, before the results came back.
She had been in hospital for weeks following a fall and her family were told she was medically fit and had to leave.
They are furious the hospital did not wait to find out what was wrong with Joan and fear others at the home were put at risk.
Daughter Patricia, of Park Crescent, Royston said: “They just got rid of her as quickly as possible.”
Son Barrie, of Victoria Road, Royston added: “They didn't want to solve the problem they just wanted to pass it onto somebody else.”
Hospital medical director Dr David Hicks says patients may be discharged before test results are known if it is the correct clinical decision.
He added: “We apologise if we have not followed this procedure or provided Mrs Caves with the best care possible. We will be seeking an early meeting with Mrs Caves' relatives to discuss this and see if there are any ways we can improve the care we give patients.”
• Full story in this week's Chronicle.
