Auto Amazon Links: No products found. Blocked by captcha.
A patient losing her life has been linked to failures within the breast cancer service at a hospital trust currently facing serious criticism. The County Durham and Darlington Foundation Trust (CDDFT) is undertaking a comprehensive review of medical records, examining 1,500 cases from 2023 onward. So far, among 357 files reviewed, harm was identified in 245 patients. The trust is now contemplating extending the review to include cases prior to 2023 and is collaborating with NHS England to bring in additional expert reviewers.
This trust has faced intense scrutiny after an independent investigation was launched by the Royal College of Surgeons (RCS), commissioned by the North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board. The review uncovered troubling issues including missed cancer diagnoses, unnecessary mastectomies, failure to offer chemotherapy when needed, and unwarranted lymph node surgeries. Moreover, a separate governance review by Mary Aubrey highlighted systemic problems stretching back to 2012, noting that these failures inflicted considerable physical, emotional, and psychological distress on both patients and staff.
A fresh leadership team has been installed at the trust, headed by new chief executive Steve Russell, with a mandate to address these deep-seated issues, particularly concerning breast cancer care. Though investigations continue regarding the circumstances surrounding the woman’s death, the trust has stated it is receiving guidance from NHS England and other trusts experienced in conducting reviews to determine the appropriate timeframe for their inquiry. Interim chief nurse Gill Hunt emphasized that the look-back review remains a priority, with efforts underway to increase independent clinical reviewers and maintain contact and support for affected patients. Hunt also pointed out improvements such as stronger clinical leadership, recruitment of specialist surgeons, better outcomes, increased breast-conserving surgeries, and fewer repeat operations.
Among those affected is Leanne Canavan, a mother of three and pediatric nurse employed by the trust, diagnosed with breast cancer at age 39. She describes significant delays in her diagnosis that endangered her life and led to intensive treatment. “If I had trusted the system and not returned I believe the cancer could have spread and eventually left my three children without a mother,” she said. Her experience also included lymph node surgery that left a noticeable scar, with consequences she believes might have been avoided if diagnosed earlier.
Concerns over patient safety have prompted Durham Police to open a portal inviting individuals who suspect they may be victims of criminal offences related to breast cancer treatment between 2023 and 2025 to come forward. A hospital helpline has already handled over 500 calls. Legal experts working with affected patients are urging the trust to widen its review beyond the current scope, citing evidence of substandard care predating the current inquiry. Chloe Gibson, a clinical negligence solicitor, stressed that the issues appear systemic and comprehensive investigation is necessary to identify and support all those impacted.
Francesca Paul, a partner at Fletchers Solicitors, echoed these calls for transparency and accountability. She warned of the dangers in restricting the timeframe of the investigation, stating, “Limiting the timeframe risks missing earlier failings and denying some women the opportunity for review, support, or appropriate follow-up.” The emphasis remains on ensuring patient safety and thorough, far-reaching examination of the trust’s practices over time
Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More
Auto Amazon Links: No products found. Blocked by captcha.