According to recent media reports, the Southern Health and Social Care Trust have announced that a number of patients have been recalled after a review into the work of a Consultant Urologist. The Southern Trust has reported that “clinical concerns were raised” and the consultant “no longer works in the health service”.

We understand from media reports that the recall focuses on a Consultant Urologist, Aidan O’Brien, who worked at Craigavon Area Hospital as part of the Southern Health and Social Care Trust. We understand Mr O’Brien retired in summer 2020.

Health Minister, Robin Swann, announced on 24 November 2020 that there would be a statutory public inquiry into “serious concerns about the clinical practice of the hospital consultant.” Mr Swann apologised to patients and their families for the upset and distress caused by the review into consultant Aidan O’Brien.

The BBC has reported that over 1,159 patients’ records have been initially reviewed and 271 patients or families have been contacted by the Trust. Furthermore, the BBC reports that nine cases have meet the threshold for a serious adverse incident review.

At Higgins Hollywood Deazley we recognise the upset, distress and worry this recent announcement will cause to the patients and families affected.

Higgins Hollywood Deazley have extensive experience in acting for patients involved in patient recalls. Higgins Hollywood Deazley are instructed by a considerable number of patients and families affected by the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust neurology patient recall announced in May 2018 arising from the review of Dr Michael Watt, Consultant Neurologist.

If you are a patient affected by the Southern Trust’s urology recall or the Belfast Trust’s neurology recall or have queries regarding any other medical negligence matter, please contact our experienced medical negligence team at HHD Solicitors – on 028 90770770 or by email laurenjones@hhdsolicitors.com.