The Northern Care Alliance NHS Foundation Trust (NCA) has today published an independent report by Barrister Mr Carlo Breen into the Trust’s historic management of concerns in relation to a Consultant Spinal Surgeon.
An executive summary, full report and the Trust’s response to Mr Breen’s review can be found below.
The investigation found that certain patients, relatives and colleagues had been significantly let down. The Trust fully accepts the findings and apologises for any distress or harm caused by the issues identified within the report.
In response to a significant Freedom to Speak Up concern, NCA Chief Executive Dr Owen Williams commissioned Mr Breen in March 2022 to investigate how historic concerns and complaints dating back to 2007 relating to this consultant’s conduct, probity and capability had been previously handled and what lessons could be learned.
Mr Breen’s review is the second review commissioned by the Trust relating to these important matters. The first report detailed the findings of the “Spinal Patient Safety Look Back Review” and was published last year.
Dr Williams said: “I am deeply sorry and apologise to the patients and their families for the care which is described in both Mr Breen’s report released today and the patient look back review from last year.
“I also apologise to my NCA colleagues who have had to work too hard to get their concerns heard and thoroughly investigated. I am thankful that they persisted. We will do right by them and our patients by continuing to put into practice what we have learned”.
Information regarding patients
As part of our Spinal Patient Safety Look Back Review, we contacted patients where concerns with their treatment or care were identified or further investigation was required. There will be some patients whose care has been reviewed, but not contacted, because there were no concerns or need for further assessment.
This surgeon has not worked at the Trust since 2015.
Any patient who still has concerns has been advised to speak to their clinician or contact us through our Patient Advice and Liaison Service on 0161 778 5665 or pals@nca.nhs.uk Monday to Friday between 09.30 to 16.30 hours.