Paterson inquiry to call for hospital safety changes

Paterson carried out unnecessary operations in NHS and private hospitals across Birmingham and Solihull, exaggerating or inventing cancer risks and claiming payments for more expensive procedures.

He was jailed for 20 years in 2017 after being found guilty of 17 counts of wounding patients with intent.

A public inquiry, which has been looking at the circumstances surrounding Paterson's malpractice and broader lessons that can be learnt about private healthcare, will publish its findings in a report on Tuesday.

Lawyers acting for his victims hope it will include recommendations to strengthen the regulatory system to prevent prolonged abuse from taking place in the future.

Emma Doughty, a clinical negligence lawyer at Slater and Gordon, which represented more than 100 victims, said:

"One of the most shocking parts of this health scandal is that Paterson was inadequately monitored so he was able to get away with his crimes inflicting so much harm over such a long period.

"There was a clear failure to implement necessary checks and safeguards which should have protected vulnerable patients from a doctor who was intent on harm.

"But what my clients want to know is who is accountable for this catastrophic failure and how can it be prevented from ever happening again. This inquiry has to answer these questions without fear or favour.

"Without somebody taking responsibility and there being a consequent call to action, the victims of this scandal will feel further betrayed.''

Professor Derek Alderson, President of the Royal College of Surgeons England, said:

"While this inquiry cannot undo the terrible consequences of Paterson's criminal actions, its findings will be extremely important for patient care across the NHS and independent sector.''

"However, we must do everything possible to ensure that a rogue individual cannot do so much harm to so many, ever again.''