NHS Chief Sir Jim Mackey Supported Heart Surgeon Linked to Patient Deaths
Sir Jim Mackey, the Chief Executive of the Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals Trust, has publicly addressed concerns related to heart surgeon Ms. Booth, who is under investigation linked to several patient deaths. This comes after he met with families affected by her surgical failures.
NHS Investigation Ongoing
The investigation into Ms. Booth’s practices continues, following a formal referral to the General Medical Council (GMC) in 2022. Mackey acknowledged the frustrations surrounding the prolonged investigation and emphasized his commitment to expediting the process. He reassured families that the Trust is dedicated to addressing their concerns.
Failures Identified at Freeman Hospital
An investigation by Freeman Hospital identified multiple failures that contributed to poor patient outcomes associated with Ms. Booth. Key issues included:
- Surgical errors due to inadequate experience.
- Lack of insight into her own competence.
- Failure to seek assistance from more experienced colleagues.
The cardiac unit’s operational difficulties were highlighted, revealing a problematic working culture. A 2021 Royal College of Surgeons report noted concerns over governance procedures and a reluctance among senior staff to accept responsibility.
Response from Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals Trust
The Trust has acknowledged these cultural issues within the cardiac unit, emphasizing their commitment to patient safety. They stated they are carefully considering the next steps for Ms. Booth’s return to work, guided by review recommendations and external advice.
Concerns from Clinical Staff
The Trust has not addressed whether it is safe for patients for Ms. Booth to return, especially amidst some colleagues’ strong opposition to her reinstatement. The organization maintains that their operations are always in the best interests of patients, with a focus on enhancing safety and addressing staff concerns.
As the investigation unfolds, the Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals Trust assures the public of its commitment to rigorous standards and patient safety going forward.
