Coroner Highlights Failure To Refer Mr Loy To A Specialist

An inquest into the death of Ian Loy, from Osset, Wakefield took place at Huddersfield Coroner’s Court on Wednesday 9th September 2009.

The coroner returned a verdict of death by natural causes, but highlighted that Mr Loy’s GP did not refer him to a specialist when he could have done on three separate occasions.

Mr Loy was 46 when he died from a heart attack on February 21st 2009. He was on his way out to walk his dogs when he collapsed on the steps of his porch. He was found shortly afterwards by his wife, who phoned an ambulance and attempted CPR, but Mr Loy was pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital.

Heather Kolar, from law firm Irwin Mitchell who represents Mrs Loy, said: “Although Mr Loy saw his GP on three separate occasions complaining of symptoms associated with heart disease, he was not referred to see a specialist. Had he been diagnosed correctly he would have been prescribed aspirin immediately and his tragic death may well have been avoided.

“As a result, Mr Loy was going about his daily activities in a normal fashion, completely unaware that he was suffering from a serious heart condition and his family believed he would recover from his illness and return to a normal life. Mrs Loy is understandably devastated by his sudden death.

“We urge anyone who suspects they may have heart disease to take note of this case and ensure that all of the necessary precautions are observed.”