Recall of neurology patients in Northern Ireland
On Tuesday 1 May 2018 Belfast Health and Social Care Trust in Northern Ireland recalled 2,500 neurology patients for a case review.
This follows a review of the work of neurology consultant Dr Michael Watt at the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust. He worked there until December 2016, he also practised privately at the Ulster Independent Clinic until June 2017.
The Belfast Trust has set up over 200 additional clinics, which will run for 12 weeks from Saturday 5 May 2018 on Saturdays and Sundays, to review patients who have previously been seen by Dr Watts.
Help and support
Nicola Moore, Northern Ireland Country Director at Parkinson's UK says:
"We understand this is a very distressing time for people with Parkinson's living in Northern Ireland.
"We want to reassure people that we are here to support them and would advise anyone who has received a letter from the Trust to call their advice line on 0800 980 1100 to make a review appointment as soon as possible.
"Private patients of Dr Watts who attended the Ulster Independent Clinic can also call 028 9068 6511 for further assistance.
We will also be working with the Northern Ireland Neurological Charities Alliance on a letter to the Belfast Health Trust responding to the review and detailing concerns of people living with Parkinson's in Northern Ireland."
Update - Thursday 31 May 2018
We are aware the recall of neurology patients by the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust has been an anxious time for many people living with Parkinson's in Northern Ireland.
We are working alongside the Department of Health and Belfast Trust to support people through the process.
The patient advice line for the Belfast Trust is still available for anyone who has yet to book an appointment. Please call 0800 980 1100. Lines are open Monday–Friday, 9am–6pm.
For patients who attended the Ulster Independent Clinic, please call 028 9068 6511. Lines are open weekdays 9am–6pm.
For anyone who attended the Hillsborough Private Clinic please call 028 9268 8899. Lines are open Monday to Thursday 8.45am–9pm and Friday 8.45am–5pm.
As a charity we are also here to provide information and support to anyone affected by Parkinson's via our team of Parkinson's Local Advisers and our confidential helpline.
To speak to a Parkinson's Local Adviser in your area please call our Norther Ireland Service Manager Patricia Jordan on 0344 225 3682 or email [email protected].
Our helpline 0800 800 0303 is available Monday-Friday 9am-7pm and Saturday 10am-2pm.
Update - Tuesday 5 June 2018
The Northern Ireland Department of Health has issued an update and frequently asked questions document on the neurology patient recall.