LISTEN: Patients to be recalled over urology review in the Southern Trust

by Q Radio News

A number of patients are being recalled after a review was launched into the work of a former consultant urologist within the Southern Health and Social Care Trust. 

The trust confirmed 'clinical concerns' in relation to the consultant 'who no longer workers in the health service' are currently being reviewed. 

It said a "small number of patients" are affected and have been contacted so their care can be reviewed.

The Irish News reported that an investigation began this summer into the care of urology patients at Craigavon Area Hospital. 

The consultant at the centre of the probe retired in June but worked at the hospital for a significant period. 

According to the newspaper, hundreds of patients may be recalled with a helpline "ready to go". 

A Trust spokesperson said, "At this stage, a small number of patients have been contacted so that their care can be reviewed.

"The Department of Health is being kept updated on the progress of the review and the potential impact on patients.

"If anyone is concerned and would like information please phone us on 0800 4148520 between 10am and 3pm."

The latest development comes a month after health minister Robin Swann ordered a probe into the Southern Trust, after a coronavirus outbreak on a haematology ward in Craigavon was linked to the deaths of six patients.

A further six patients died at Daisy Hill hospital in Newry, which is also managed by the trust, after a Covid cluster was discovered.

Mr Swann is expected to make an announcement in coming days on the urology recall and investigation, which is reported to be "comprehensive" but not yet concluded.

SDLP Upper Bann MLA Dolores Kelly has said that the recall of urology patients in the Southern Health Trust following ‘clinical concerns’ about the work of a consultant demands urgent answers from the Department of Health.

Dolores Kelly

Dolores Kelly MLA said:                                                                                                                          

“News that a number of urology patients are set to be recalled in the Southern Trust area following a high level investigation over the summer are deeply concerning for those who have received treatment and their families.

“The Southern Trust and the Department of Health need to act quickly to provide reassurance and support to those affected. We also need to be assured that there is adequate capacity within urology, following the loss of this consultant, to ensure that new patients are receiving treatment quickly.

“Urgent answers are needed for patients and the public. I will be pressing the Minister to provide these as soon as possible.”