Following Northern Ireland’s biggest patient recall in 2018 over concerns surrounding his clinical practices, Former consultant neurologist Michael Watt is being investigated by the police. Patients and families of deceased patients received an email explaining the investigation, called Operation Begrain, which is being conducted by a Major Investigation team. A letter seen by BBC News NI stated that the police aim to alert the media on Tuesday and will appeal to former patients of Michael Watt with concerns to come forward to the police.
In June 2022, an independent inquiry found that the Belfast Health Trust did not intervene quickly enough in Michael Watt’s practice, concluding that a decade of patterns in his work went unnoticed. The Executive Chairman of the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust, Brett Lockhart QC, apologised, but some families argue that the police investigation should not be limited to Watt but should extend to those in charge.
Watt’s performance came under further scrutiny at a recent medical tribunal hearing, where his fitness to practice was deemed to be “currently impaired”, and his professional performance “unacceptable”. The verdict led to an immediate order of suspension on his registration. If he does not appeal the decision, he will be struck off the register.
Patients and families of those who are deceased have fought hard to push for this police investigation and view it as a significant move. They feel let down by Northern Ireland’s healthcare system, and their only recourse is to seek legal redress through a medical tribunal and the courts. A short questionnaire will be shared to capture patient concerns, with the information going straight to the investigation team as the first step in the police investigative process.
Former patient of Dr Watt, Danielle O’Neill, stated that many are in “complete shock” and “hope that at last justice will be done”. This investigation comes five years after many experienced a difficult time, and they seek relief. Michael Watt’s representatives have yet to make an official comment
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