Beloved charity stalwart died after GP error
Deborah Nadel successfully settled a medical negligence claim on behalf of a widower whose wife tragically died after her GP failed to identify symptoms of a pulmonary embolism.
Margaret Geiger devoted her life to supporting vulnerable individuals often overlooked by society. Born in Carlow, Ireland, she became a dedicated staff member at the Irish Elderly Advice Network (IEAN) in London, where she championed the welfare and housing rights of older Irish people in need. Her unwavering commitment brought warmth, dignity, and hope to countless lives.
Margaret had a complex medical history, including achalasia and suspected myasthenia gravis, making her more susceptible to serious health complications. In the year leading up to her passing, she was hospitalised several times due to infections and pneumonia.
On the morning of 10 September 2021, she suddenly experienced severe breathlessness. Concerned, her daughter contacted the GP surgery and insisted she be seen face to face by a doctor. Her husband rushed her to their local GP surgery. While he was parking the car, Margaret was assessed by a doctor. Upon entering the clinic, Mr Geiger was reassured that his wife was fine and could go home.
However, Margaret's condition did not improve. She remained breathless and fatigued throughout the following day. On the morning of 12 September, she collapsed at home. Despite emergency resuscitation efforts, she could not be saved. A post-mortem examination confirmed that she had died from a pulmonary embolism.
Margaret's family pursued a medical negligence claim against the GP, represented by law firm Fieldfisher. The defendant admitted liability, acknowledging that Margaret's assessment had fallen below an acceptable standard of care and that a pulmonary embolism should have been considered as a possible diagnosis.
The GP also failed to warn Margaret about the potential seriousness of her symptoms or advise her to seek hospital treatment. Had she been referred to hospital on 10 September, she would have undergone appropriate investigations and received treatment that, on balance, would have saved her life.
However, the defendant argued that even with proper medical advice, it was uncertain whether Margaret would have agreed to a hospital admission. Deborah Nadel challenged this stance, presenting a strong case that it was likely to fail. After negotiations, a settlement was reached.
A six-figure sum was secured for Margaret’s husband, children, and grandchildren.
Margaret's case underscores the vital importance of thorough clinical assessments and clear patient communication. Had she been properly advised and referred to hospital, she would most likely have survived the embolism.
Her funeral was a testament to the profound impact Margaret had. Hundreds of mourners turned out to honour the woman who had dedicated her life to helping others—an advocate who had changed for the better so many lives.
Contact us
For further information about GP negligence claims or medical negligence claims, please call Deborah Nadel on 03304606750 or email deborah.nadel@fieldfisher.com.
Alternatively
- You can speak to our medical negligence solicitors on freephone 0800 358 3848
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