Review of urology patients announced within the Southern Health and Social Care Trust

While the Department of Health continues its investigation into the treatment of patients by Dr Michael Watt, Consultant Neurologist, a further review of patient care has been announced, this time in respect of urology patients within the Southern Health and Social Care Trust. 

In October 2020 the Minister of Health, Robin Swann confirmed in a statement to the assembly that a Department of Health review had commenced into clinical treatment provided by a consultant urologist who no longer works for the Southern Health and Social Care Trust. 

It has been confirmed that an internal investigation was commenced after concerns were raised in relation to treatment provided by the consultant.  At this stage a ‘small number’ of patients have been contacted and investigations are ongoing to establish the precise number of patients whose treatment needs to be reviewed.  It may be that consultants outside of the Southern Trust are brought in to review patients in order to address patient concerns quickly and without delay.  The Department of Health have indicated that this investigation will be given priority even with the ongoing covid-19 pandemic.

This is obviously concerning for urology patients within the Southern Trust, and while we have only limited information at present, further details are likely to follow as investigations continue.

Worthingtons act for a number of patients who have been affected by the neurology recall within the Belfast Trust and we are therefore able to advise and assist anyone impacted by this most recent recall.   

If you or a family member are one of the patients recalled by the Trust, we will work to ensure you receive the compensation you are entitled to for the pain and suffering you have endured, as well as for any financial losses you have suffered or will suffer, as a result.  At Worthingtons Solicitors, we provide a personalised service so that you can discuss your claim in a welcoming, safe, and confidential environment. As experts in the area of medical negligence, we can best advise you whether to proceed with your claim and discuss how to best move forward.  Legal Aid is often available to support clinical negligence cases.

If you would like advice and guidance on this process, please contact Claire McDaid at our Belfast office on 028 9043 4015.