Government launches independent national inquiry following malpractice of jailed Trafford surgeon
Breast surgeon Ian Paterson was jailed in April.
The Government has announced plans for an independent Inquiry into the malpractice of convicted surgeon Ian Paterson from Altrincham.
Chaired by the Right Reverend Graham James, Bishop of Norwich, the inquiry seeks to learn lessons from the case and how care can be improved across the country as a result.
Paterson – a consultant breast surgeon – was found guilty in April this year of 17 counts of wounding patients with intent. He was sentenced to jail for 20 years.
The Inquiry follows a pledge by the Health Secretary earlier in the year in which he committed to hold a ‘comprehensive and focused inquiry’.
Philip Dunne, Health Minister, said: "Ian Paterson’s malpractice sent shockwaves across the health system due to the seriousness and extent of his crimes, and I am determined to make sure lessons are learnt from this so that it never happens again in the independent sector or the NHS.
"I believe an independent, Non-Statutory Inquiry, overseen by Bishop Graham James, is the right way forward to ensure that all aspects of this case are brought to light and lessons learned so we can better protect patients in the future.”
The Right Revd Graham James, Lord Bishop of Norwich, said: “The actions of Ian Paterson and the grievous harm he inflicted on patients are deeply concerning, and they have given rise to some serious questions which remain unanswered.
“It is vital that the Inquiry be informed by the concerns of former patients of Ian Paterson and their representatives. The interests of all patients, whether they seek treatment in the NHS or the private sector, should be at the heart of this Inquiry and I will do my very best in the interest of those affected and the public.”
The Inquiry will be informed by the victims of Paterson and their families, and is likely to consider:
• the responsibility for the quality of care in the independent sector; appraisal and ensuring validation of staff in the independent sector and the safety of multi-disciplinary working;
• information sharing, reporting of activity and raising concerns between the independent sector and the NHS;
• and, the role of insurers of independent sector healthcare providers, and arrangements for medical indemnity cover for clinicians in the independent sector.
The Inquiry will be start in January 2018 with a report expected in summer 2019.