Hawking’s former nurse is struck off
PROFESSOR Stephen Hawking’s former nurse has been struck off for financial misconduct and failings in her care of the renowned physicist.
Patricia Dowdy, 61, was removed from the nursing register yesterday three years after she was first suspended after a series of allegations made against her by the Hawking family.
The family of Prof Hawking, who died a year ago, said they were relieved their ordeal was over and that others would not have to go through what they had suffered at the nurse’s hands.
The NMC said the charges included financial misconduct, dishonesty, not providing appropriate care, failing to cooperate with the nursing watchdog and not being correctly qualified.
The nature of the allegations remain shrouded in secrecy as the tribunal was held behind closed doors. The police have not been involved, with sources close to the inquiry saying they would have been alerted had serious criminality been involved.
Mrs Dowdy was employed as a nurse and a clinical lead for Prof Hawking, often being seen at his side at events. She first started caring for him in the late Nineties but was suspended two years ago. It is unclear whether Prof Hawking made any complaints against her.
Matthew Mcclelland, director of Fitness to Practise at the NMC, said: “The panel found Mrs Dowdy failed to provide the standards of good professional care we expect and Prof Hawking deserved. As a result Mrs Dowdy will no longer be able to practice as a nurse.”
The panel defended its decision to hold the tribunal in secret, stating that “given the unique nature of his work and medical condition”, Prof Hawking would easily be identifiable in the case.
Details of his personal care, medical condition and needs were discussed throughout the hearing, it was argued.
A spokesman said: “The Hawking family are relieved this traumatic ordeal has now concluded and that as a result of the verdict, others will not have to go through what they suffered from this individual.
“They want to thank the NMC for the thorough investigation.”