The plaintiff developed a lesion on her foot and was referred by her family doctor to a dermatologist, who then referred her to a plastic surgeon.
The lesion was eventually excised and diagnosed as a malignant melanoma, resulting in severe health consequences.
The plaintiff sued both specialists for medical negligence.
The Superior Court of Justice found both defendants liable.
The dermatologist breached the standard of care by failing to adequately communicate his findings and the urgency of the situation in his referral note.
The plastic surgeon breached the standard of care by failing to urgently excise the lesion despite observing signs of a possible melanoma.
The court concluded that their combined negligence materially contributed to the delayed diagnosis and the plaintiff's resulting damages.
