Statement issued by suspended Dr Michael Watt

In May 2018 Belfast Health and Social Care Trust announced that it would be recalling a large number of patients following concerns raised in a report by the Royal College of Physicians about the work of consultant neurologist, Dr Michael Watt.

Last week, a BBC Spotlight programme revealed that Dr Watt had carried out hundreds of unnecessary procedures on patients, including a very significant number of blood epidural procedures. It also obtained details of an as yet unpublished report from the Department of Health which confirmed that one in five of Dr Watt’s patients had been misdiagnosed.

Dr Watt had unsuccessfully attempted, by way of injunction proceedings, to stop the documentary being aired.

Following the Spotlight documentary, Dr Watt issued his first public statement since the recall in which he offered his “sincere sympathy” to those affected by the patient recall and that he recognised the “distress these events have caused.” He stated “Current investigations have highlighted concerns over the security of a number of my patients’ diagnoses. I recognise the considerable distress these events have caused and I can only express my sincere sympathy to any of my patients affected as a result.”

At Thompsons NI we have specialist clinical negligence solicitors with considerable experience of assisting and representing patients who have suffered as a result of delayed diagnosis, misdiagnosis and negligent procedures. Take a look at our medical negligence page for more information about the support we can offer.

Thompsons NI are currently acting on behalf of a number of former patients of Dr Watt, including those who have undergone epidural blood patch procedures.

If you have concerns about the treatment you have received, please contact either Oonagh McClure or Joanne Kerr of our office on 02890 890450 for free, no obligation advice or start a claim online.