Inquest into the Death of Allan Chapman

75y · Male·Metastatic Lung Carcinoma

Allan Chapman, a 75-year-old sentenced prisoner, died of metastatic lung carcinoma on 4 April 2004 at Murdoch Community Hospice. He presented with lethargy and dysphonia in February 2004, leading to prompt chest imaging that revealed extensive lung cancer with liver metastasis. He was managed appropriately through Royal Perth Hospital's respiratory and palliative care services, with pain management optimised during hospice care. The coroner found his medical management was appropriate, with all reasonable treatment options explored by experienced physicians. The only issue identified was a procedural problem: the hospice had not been advised of Death in Custody procedures, resulting in the death scene not being sealed and family remaining with the body. The coroner recommended that community facilities accommodating sentenced prisoners be properly advised of Death in Custody procedures at the time they agree to provide care.