01/05/2018
Over 2,500 NI Patients Recalled Over Treatment
Over 2,500 patients in Northern Ireland have been recalled following an investigation into a consultant neurologist's work.
It follows a review of the work of neurology consultant Dr Michael Watt.
The consultant is not currently treating patients.
Dr Mark Mitchelson, Medical Chair of Division said: "The recall of such a large number of patients is so that we can be confident and thorough in ensuring that patients are having the best possible care.
"To ensure patients are seen as quickly as possible we have set up a large number of additional clinics and we intend to see all patients within the next twelve weeks.
"Again, we are truly sorry for the anxiety this will cause."
An advice line on 0800 980 1100 will be open from 9am to 9pm on weekdays and 9am to 5pm at weekends.
Alliance Health spokesperson Paula Bradshaw MLA said: "I have already spoken to the Trust and I have been assured any patient receiving a letter today will have their review meeting within 12 weeks.
"I am now seeking to ensure that the Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority is engaged to conduct a review of governance arrangements across all five health trusts. We hear every day the health service is under tremendous pressures and staff members have extremely high work-loads, so it is important patients can be assured all measures are in place to ensure safe diagnoses and associated, appropriate treatment plans."
(CD/MH)
It follows a review of the work of neurology consultant Dr Michael Watt.
The consultant is not currently treating patients.
Dr Mark Mitchelson, Medical Chair of Division said: "The recall of such a large number of patients is so that we can be confident and thorough in ensuring that patients are having the best possible care.
"To ensure patients are seen as quickly as possible we have set up a large number of additional clinics and we intend to see all patients within the next twelve weeks.
"Again, we are truly sorry for the anxiety this will cause."
An advice line on 0800 980 1100 will be open from 9am to 9pm on weekdays and 9am to 5pm at weekends.
Alliance Health spokesperson Paula Bradshaw MLA said: "I have already spoken to the Trust and I have been assured any patient receiving a letter today will have their review meeting within 12 weeks.
"I am now seeking to ensure that the Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority is engaged to conduct a review of governance arrangements across all five health trusts. We hear every day the health service is under tremendous pressures and staff members have extremely high work-loads, so it is important patients can be assured all measures are in place to ensure safe diagnoses and associated, appropriate treatment plans."
(CD/MH)
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