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Carer Denied Husband's Discharge Over Missing Paperwork
22 Apr
Summary
- A doctor refused to discharge a patient due to lack of power of attorney.
- The carer provided proof of her ability to care for her husband.
- Only 8% of UK adults have an up-to-date power of attorney.
Dorothy Cook, a carer for her husband Melvin for 49 years, faced immense distress when a doctor refused to discharge him from the hospital. The refusal stemmed from Dorothy not having power of attorney, a legal document granting authority for health decisions. Melvin, diagnosed with ataxia, a degenerative neurological disease, had been admitted to the hospital in March 2025.
Despite Dorothy's long-term caregiving, a doctor deemed Melvin lacked mental capacity for discharge. Dorothy argued this was due to his communication difficulties. Following his discharge, Dorothy established power of attorney, emphasizing its importance after her ordeal. Melvin passed away in June 2025 at age 78.
This situation underscores a national issue, as only 8% of UK adults have an up-to-date power of attorney, according to Carers UK and Standard Life, who launched the first UK-wide Power of Attorney Day. They urge others to prioritize this legal safeguard to ensure wishes are respected and reduce future stress.
