The Trust has identified lapses in care which have resulted in unnecessary harm being caused to some patients. The Trust has contacted 136 women who underwent surgical procedures by the Consultant in the previous three years to ask them to engage in a review process.
This action has been taken by the Trust after an initial review of 58 patients found that eight women had suffered unnecessary harm after undergoing surgery, such as hysterectomies. This initial review was instigated by concerns expressed by members of the Obstetrics and Gynaecology Team regarding the Consultant. The consultant has not undertaken any clinical activity since mid-2018.
Dr Magnus Harrison, UHDB Executive Medical Director, said: “I would like to express my sincere regret and apologies to any patients who may have received a standard of care that is below that expected. The Trust took immediate action as soon as serious concerns about specific aspects of this consultant's practice were brought to our attention.”
The focus of the review to be undertaken by NHS England will be on determining whether patients have been managed appropriately and whether any harm has been caused due to issues with their standard of care. The affected patients have been informed that their medical records will be shared confidentially with NHS England.
Shoosmiths Medical negligence partner Kashmir Uppal has been instrumental in pursuing claims on behalf of those injured by Birmingham based breast surgeon, Ian Paterson since 2010 and she continues to work with other patients affected by rogue surgeons.
She commented: “The number of women who have been contacted by the hospital is worrying and highlights the seriousness of the review. Our experience of cases where patients have suffered unnecessary harm is that it often continues for unacceptable periods of time without colleagues being able to raise alarm in the interest of patient safety.
“It is welcomed in this case that colleagues of the Consultant were prepared to highlight the issues identified and we much hope that the concerns will be dealt with seriously to prevent further unnecessary harm taking place.
"The fantastic work done by the NHS should not be undermined by individual doctors whose actions compromise patient safety. It is important that such individuals are identified, and appropriate action is taken to prevent further harm as soon as possible. It is reassuring to note that the Consultant in this case has not undertaken any clinical activity since 2018.”
The Trust inform that those patients who are potentially affected at this stage have already been contacted directly. However, anyone needing further reassurance should contact the Derby Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS), full details of how to get in touch are here.
Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. It is recommended that specific professional advice is sought before acting on any of the information given. © Shoosmiths LLP 2024
