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Supporters of suspended Walsgrave
surgeons have welcomed a probe into NHS management of
disciplinary methods. The government's spending watchdog,
the National Audit Office, is looking into the suspension
of clinicians, particularly doctors. The investigation
will tackle three main issues: thescaleof the problem;
how efficiently NHS trusts manage the suspension process,
and the protection of patients and other staff. Walsgrave
Hospital has seen three high-profile suspensions in the
last two years. Alban Barros D'Sa who was allowed back to
work following two High Court cases; breast surgeon
Briony Ackroyd, who faces an internal hearing despite
being backed by the General Medical Council, and
cardiologist Dr Raj Mattu, who faces allegations of
bullying a junior colleague.
Eileen Tilley, of the Briony Ackroyd Support Group, said they had written to the NAO at least 12 months ago asking how much suspensions cost the health service. "It does make you wonder whether the inquiry and the fuss made by our local MPs has helped spur this investigation. I would welcome it wholeheartedly. There must be millions of pounds going on cases like Briony's throughout the health service which could be better spent."
Coventry
South Labour MP Jim Cunningham said: "I think it is
not before time.
"Hopefully
this study will provide some answers as to how this can
be avoided."
The
NAO is inviting comments. It can be contacted, by the end
of October on 020 7798 7161, 020 7798 7241 or 020 7798
7191.
