NHS trust to recall thousands of patients

BELFAST’S HOSPITALS trust has said it is “truly sorry” for having to recall 2,500 patients after a probe into the work of a consultant neurologist.

The recall comes after an independent review of patient notes relating to the work of Dr Michael Watt, by both the Trust and the Royal College of Physicians.

The consultant is currently not treating patients, but is still an employee, the Belfast Trust said.

Concerns were raised by other doctors about Dr Watt’s management of patients, particularly his treatment plans and diagnoses.

The patients recalled were being treated for a wide range of neurological conditions, including epilepsy and MS, and are aged 14 and up.

Concerns were raised by doctors in December 2016 and the trust says patient safety measures were put in place “immediately”.

These included restrictions on aspects of Dr Watt’s practice.

He has not been seeing patients since June 2017, the trust said.

The final report from the Royal College of Physicians was sent to the trust on April 26.

The trust said it understands that Dr Watt had a private practice and has not been seeing private patients since June 2017.

It said private patients can ring its advice line but are encouraged to contact their private healthcare provider.

Dr Mark Mitchelson, medical chairman of division, said: “I fully understand this will cause significant anxiety to many patients and their families and for that we are truly sorry.

“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.”