Despite the fact a year has passed since the independent review into breast surgeon Ian Paterson and his treatment of patients, it is understood that hundreds of his former patients have yet to be contacted in the ongoing patient recall. It may be that approximately 6,500 of Paterson’s patients have been contacted, but a total of 11,000 may still need to be reviewed.
Paterson is currently serving a 20-year sentence after being convicted of wounding with intent. His unnecessary practices, such as mastectomy procedures that were not required, were not only dangerous, but also incredibly traumatic for the victims, leaving them with physical and mental scars.
We believe that it is not only Paterson who should be held accountable – the hospitals in which he worked in have a lot to answer for too. It is shocking that such treatments completely bypassed hospital management, and it suggests that systematic failings allowed Ian Paterson to get away with his harmful actions. As such, we believe that there are many of Paterson’s patients who may still be able to make a medical negligence claim. If you have been contacted by the hospital involved, or if you believe you have been affected, do not hesitate to contact us for advice on your potential claim.
The crimes of breast surgeon Ian Paterson
Although criticisms of breast surgeon Ian Paterson and his treatment had been circulating as early as 2003, it was not until 2017 that he finally faced a criminal trial. The verdict found Paterson guilty of 10 counts of wounding with intent, later expanded to 17 counts, upon which his sentence was extended from 15 years to 20 years.
Among the unnecessary tests and treatments carried out by Paterson were his notorious “cleavage-sparing” mastectomies, that left breast tissue behind and consequently put patients at risk of their cancer returning.
The inquiry and your chance to claim
The government has yet to act upon the independent inquiry into breast surgeon Ian Paterson, despite its inclusion of urgent methods for ensuring patient safety moving forward. Victims fear that other surgeons could be allowed to exploit the same loopholes if changes are not made.
The hospitals involved have also been slow to notify the patients of their review, with hundreds yet to be contacted. To take action now, those affected can contact us for advice about their potential compensation claim.
A medical negligence claim can allow victims to be compensated for any pain and suffering caused to them, and it can also cover the costs of any consequent losses or expenses. For example, if you have had to pay for private treatment to deal with the injury or ongoing problems caused by Ian Paterson, you could be reimbursed for such costs.
Make your claim today
At The Injury Lawyers, we understand that it can be daunting to start a medical negligence claim, which is why we aim to make the process as stress-free for you as possible. We know that the suffering you have endured is distressing enough, so we handle all the complex legal parts for you.
If you have been affected by the malpractice of breast surgeon Ian Paterson, contact us today for free, no-obligation advice on your potential claim.
