Inquest into the death of Natalie Jean WOOD

79y · Female·Unascertained

Natalie Jean Wood, aged 79, was found deceased in her Surry Hills home in July 2011, approximately 7 years after her death in February 2004. She had lived alone in poor conditions without functioning utilities or telephone contact. Following hospitalisation in November 2003 for a neurological presentation, she was diagnosed with a skull base mass and discharged home. Medical follow-up included an MRI in December 2003 and a scheduled neurology appointment in February 2004 which she failed to attend. The coroner concluded she likely fell at home and died unable to summon assistance. Key lessons include the vulnerability of isolated elderly persons living alone, the importance of robust social care follow-up after hospital discharge (especially when family support is unavailable), and consideration of welfare checks when patients disengage from medical care.