AN investigation into the deaths of some rheumatology patients is expected to reach its conclusion by March this year, according to the Health Minister.
Deputy Tom Binet said that a progress report on the matter is due to be submitted to the Health Advisory Board this month.
In June last year, it emerged that the deaths of some rheumatology patients were being referred to the Viscount following concerns about the quality of care.
This followed the publication of a highly critical Royal College of Physicians report, which described care in the department as “well below” what would be considered acceptable.
The Health Department have been conducting a review of patients who have died who were treated by two doctors, referred to as Dr Y and Dr Z in the damning review, from January 2019 until January 2022.
As of September, the deaths of 34 rheumatology patients had so far been referred to the Viscount.
In a recent written question, Deputy Jonathan Renouf – vice-chair of the Health and Social Security Scrutiny Panel – asked for an update on the number of cases that have been referred and the number that are still being investigated.
Deputy Binet said: “The investigation into the deaths of rheumatology patients since 2019 is expected to be concluded in the first quarter of 2025, a progress report will be submitted to the Health and Care Services Advisory Board in January.”
He continued: “The progress report will include the updated number of cases referred to the Viscount, and the number of cases still being investigated.
“In the meantime, given the sensitivity surrounding this matter, I would be pleased to arrange a briefing for the Health and Social Services Scrutiny Panel with the medical director and responsible officer for primary care.”
