A DOCTOR working in Greater Glasgow was suspended by the NHS after it was found they were not following up with patients – three of whom went on to die.
In 2022, it was discovered that “a very small number of patients” had not received the appropriate follow-up care after having a colonoscopy (a test to check inside your bowels) performed by the doctor.
This instigated a “comprehensive look-back exercise” of 2700 patients between 2020 and 2022.
A clinical review, completed last month, identified six patients who suffered harm among the patients who were not followed up appropriately.
Sadly, three of the patients died.
The doctor, who has not been named, was suspended in November 2022 and has since left the employment of NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHSGGC).
It was not revealed where they worked, however, NHSGGC covers the council areas of Glasgow, East Renfrewshire, Renfrewshire, West Dunbartonshire, East Dunbartonshire, and Inverclyde.
Professor Colin McKay, deputy medical director for NHSGGC, said: “We would like to offer our sincere apologies to patients who were not followed up appropriately and our condolences to the families of those patients who have died.
“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.”
NHSGGC informed the General Medical Council (GMC) of its investigations when the issues were first identified and has continued to update on the progress of its review and findings.
It was revealed that 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.
However, a contact number for patients has been set up for anyone who may have concerns or questions.
The number is 0141 451 5435 and is staffed between 8am and 8pm Monday to Sunday.
