46,000 scans reviewed as hospital specialist is axed Diagnostic errors revealed as patient helpline is set up
MORE than 46,000 X-rays, ultrasound and CAT scans are being reviewed after a hospital employee was suspended.
The check affects nearly 27,000 patients who attended University Hospital Kerry in Tralee from March last year to this July.
The alarm was raised during the summer over three possible misdiagnoses and an initial audit of a sample of scans was conducted.
A major review has since been ordered and by Friday 18,000 files had been looked at again.
As a result of that 21 patients were recalled but no major missed cases have been highlighted and no critical missed diagnoses have been found to date.
However, a number of errors have occurred and some have reportedly resulted in delays in diagnosing patients correctly and in giving them the right treatment.
The affected patients have been alerted and follow-up care treatment plans have been put in place.
They were notified when the hospital contacted local GPS with a list of the people concerned.
Six external radiologists are at the centre of the review and RTE News reported a hospital employee was suspended and has subsequently left the hospital.
The South/southwest Group, which covers University Hospital Kerry, confirmed an investigation into patient safety has been launched. And a “look back” process has begun with independent oversight which is expected to be ready in eight to 10 weeks.
Meanwhile, a clinical co-ordinator has been tasked with communicating with patients and is arranging specific follow-up care.
The hospital said if it becomes apparent during the audit that any patients need urgent intervention they will be contacted immediately before the review is completed.
University Hospital Kerry has set up a dedicated information line for those who may have concerns.
That number is 1800-742-900 and it will be in operation from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.
UNSAFE
Meanwhile, the Siptu union, which represents radiographers at the facility, said yesterday they warned management they believed the department was unsafe and short-staffed.
The letter stated radiographers were being put under huge pressure and were overwhelmed by demands put on them.
Organiser Paul Bell told RTE an independent review had been carried out on the unit 12 months ago but recommendations had still not been applied.
He added radiographers not been briefed or received any guidance on the scans review, which he said had left them in a difficult position as many patients were upset and distressed.