Nearly 3,000 patients were recalled last year as part of an investigation into the work of neurologist Dr Michael Watt at Belfast's Royal Victoria Hospital.Dr Watt, who worked at the hospital for more than 20 years, was suspended over concerns about possible misdiagnosis.
The patients were assessed to establish whether they received the appropriate diagnosis and treatment for a range of brain conditions including MS, Parkinson's disease, stroke and motor neurone disease.A report, published yesterday, states that of the 2,953 patients recalled, reviewing clinicians found that 617 of them had been given a diagnosis that was "not secure".
"It is highly regrettable that one person should have to go through this experience, let alone the large numbers that have been involved," he added.It was initially scheduled for publication during the summer, but that was postponed due to what the department called "highly sensitive unforeseen circumstances."
Insecure diagnosis More media speak. Dignosis is either correct or incorrect.