Three patients died and others were harmed after colonoscopies by Glasgow doctor

Three patients who were given colonoscopies by an NHS doctor died and three others were harmed after they did not receive appropriate follow-up care.

NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde carried out a clinical review of patients who had a colonoscopy by the doctor between 2020 and 2022.

The review covered 2,700 patients and was instigated after a 'very small number' of patients were identified as not receiving appropriate follow-up care.

A report, which was completed in September, identified six patients who suffered harm - three of who sadly died.

The unnamed consultant was suspended in November 2022 and no longer works for NHSGGC.

The health board says patients and families affected have been fully informed of the outcome of the significant adverse event reviews that have been carried out into these cases.

Professor Colin McKay, Deputy Medical Director, NHSGGC said:

"When errors were first discovered, an immediate, comprehensive review was carried out of all cases managed by the doctor since 2020.

“Our investigations found that the doctor did not consistently follow up the results of investigations that had been completed or requested and therefore missed the opportunity for patients to be treated, including a number of patients who went on to develop malignancy.

“We would like to reassure patients that we have already contacted all those patients affected and that no other patients should be concerned that they may be involved.

“We will ensure that recommendations and any other learning from our review will be shared with other Health Boards.”

The vast majority of colonoscopies performed by the doctor were for patients in the Bowel Screening Programme. The review covered the period from January 2020 as there was review evidence of appropriate follow up prior to then.

Patients who have concerns or questions are being urged to contact 0141 451 5435 between 8am and 8pm Monday - Sunday.