A grandmother has died after being allegedly turned away by her GP surgery while suffering a heart attack, her family has claimed. Catherine Brady, 73, attended Cowdenbeath Medical Practice on 12 August 2025 complaining of chest pains and a history of cardiac problems, but was told to phone for an appointment instead.
Her son Charles Brady said his mother told reception staff she needed urgent help, describing symptoms including chest discomfort, pain down her arm and back ache. Despite this, she was sent home. Her husband then drove her to Victoria Hospital in Kirkcaldy, where doctors confirmed she was having a heart attack.
Catherine was later transferred to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary, where she died on 17 August 2025. The family has criticised the practice's handling of the case, claiming staff could not provide evidence of adequate emergency training. NHS Fife Health and Social Care Partnership said the practice had learned from an investigation.
Charles Brady, who works in the care industry, said the practice could not prove reception staff had been trained to identify medical emergencies. The family is considering referring the case to the Scottish Public Services Ombudsman and has called for better public signage at GP surgeries to ensure emergencies are recognised promptly.
“If you need urgent care, don’t assume your GP surgery will act immediately – go straight to hospital or dial 999,” he urged. The family is now compiling documents for further review by authorities.
