SDLP Health Spokesperson Mark H Durkan has written to the Permanent Secretary of the Department of Health and the Head of the Belfast Trust to request urgent meetings over an investigation in a neurology consultant in the Belfast Trust.
“Following the revelations regarding 2,500 neurological patients in Northern Ireland who have been recalled for a case review due to uncertainties regarding diagnoses, unearthed by my colleague Nichola Mallon MLA, I have sought urgent meetings with the Permanent Secretary of the Department of Health as well with as the Head of the Belfast Trust.
“I have requested these meeting to ask how this has happened and seek assurances that it will never happen again.
“I will also be making representations on behalf of patients to ensure that everything that can be done is being done to support those affected and to ensure that patients receive the correct diagnosis as soon as possible.
“Wider questions also exist regarding the geographical locations of Neurological specialists in the North, with the focus being in the Belfast Trust.
“Patients who live outside of Belfast will have additional pressure and stress to deal with travel arrangements at an already stressful time.
“This is a worrying time for many patients and their families and it is important that we do not cause undue alarm and panic.
“This is why it is imperative that all of those patients who are potentially affected are seen and reassured as soon as possible. If anyone is concerned, I would urge them to call the patient Helpline that has been set up,” he added.
