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NHS Doctor's Care Led to Deaths, Harm
10 Jul
Summary
- Three patients died due to lack of timely treatments.
- Twelve patients suffered permanent or long-term harm.
- Doctor advised patients to avoid flu jabs and rapeseed oil.
A review by the Royal College of Physicians has uncovered serious failings in the care provided by NHS respiratory consultant Dr. Veronica Varney at St Helier Hospital. The investigation examined 28 patients treated between 2019 and 2022.
Three individuals died because they were denied potentially life-extending treatments, with one patient experiencing a two-year delay in receiving crucial immunosuppression therapy. The review also found that 12 patients suffered permanent or long-term harm, while others received incorrect diagnoses or inappropriate advice, such as avoiding flu vaccinations.
Dr. Varney, who worked at St Helier Hospital in south London, was dismissed by the trust in 2023 and referred to the General Medical Council. Her ability to practice has been restricted during the ongoing investigation. The trust has apologized to affected patients and families and is implementing changes to its services.
