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Terms of Reference and Review Team Announced by HSE for Miscarriage Misdiagnosis

On 18th June 2010 the HSE announced both the Terms of Reference and the Review Team appointed to investigate the miscarriage misdiagnosis scandal. The HSE stated that they have been working with all 19 maternity hospitals in order to provide support to women with concerns about a potential incorrect diagnosis of miscarriage. Each hospital has set up a system whereby all concerns brought to the attention of the hospital will be followed up, and, where necessary, all records will be examined to make sure that the correct diagnosis was made. The HSE have said that they will be providing the necessary support to hospitals to ensure that support and follow-up care are provided to those who have been affected by an incorrect diagnosis of miscarriage.

In order to try and prevent such incidents occurring again, the HSE has appointed a Review Team, chaired by Prof. William Ledger, Vice President of the Royal College of Obstectrics in the UK, who is an independent expert. This Review Team will look at any cases in the last 5 years where drug or surgical treatment was recommended where there was an incorrect diagnosis of miscarriage. They will investigate these cases in order to find the causes of the misdiagnosis and the response made. They will make any such recommendations as are required.

This 5 year time period has been agreed in order to ensure that the findings are relevant to the Standard National Guidelines for Obstetrics that are currently being drafted. The Review Team have said though that where there is a case that falls outside this timeframe, they will consider it for review where it is felt that it would be useful for the findings of the Review Team and the development of the National Guidelines. The review should be completed within 6 months and will then be published by the HSE.

To date, a total of 240 concerned women have made contact with maternity hospitals. The HSE has stated that changes in practice have already been implemented in maternity hospitals, and that all hospitals have been advised that any decision in relation to the diagnosis of a miscarriage must be reviewed and approved by a Consultant Obstetric Surgeon. Dr. Barry White, the HSE National Director of Quality and Clinical Care, has established an Obstetrics Programme to ensure that there is standardised care for Obstetric care, including miscarriage diagnosis. A guidance document on early pregnancy loss is to be developed.

If anyone has concerns in relation to a potential miscarriage misdiagnosis, they should contact the maternity hospital where treatment was received directly. A list of contact details for the hospitals are available on www.hse.ie or on 1850 241 850.

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For further information and advice regarding your legal rights and entitlements, please contact Malcomson Law by calling 01 8744422or complete an Online Enquiry Form. Your enquiry will be forwarded to a solicitor who specialises in Medical Negligence.

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