1,500 Women In Clinical Review

The Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust (RCHT) is reviewing patients who attended the Gynaecology Outpatient Department within the last two and a half years. 

This review has been triggered by concerns about some of the treatment and care provided by one former Consultant in Obstetrics and Gynaecology - Mr K R Jones. In the past week we have sent out letters to 1,574 women telling them about a review of their treatment and care. 

The women have been invited to provide feedback on the care they received and they have been offered the chance to be informed about the outcome of the review which includes medical records being examined. 

Lezli Boswell, RCHT Chief Executive said: "As a result of concerns raised by our staff about Mr Jones we ordered an immediate internal investigation and at same time limited his clinical practice.

"RCHT then asked the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists to carry out an independent review of Mr Jones' clinical practice." 

That review has been done and the Trust has implemented all of its recommendations. 

In addition the Trust is reviewing the care and treatment offered to specific women seen by Mr Jones. "I know that while we are undertaking this review of some of Mr Jones' patients, other women may have concerns or questions about the care and treatment they too received from Mr Jones. 

"I am deeply sorry for any anxiety, pain or distress caused to our patients. "I also want to acknowledge and thank all those staff and patients who spoke out about Mr Jones. 

"The Trust is committed to finding out the full extent of the problems caused by this individual consultant's clinical practice and will take all steps necessary to ensure we do the best by our patients who have received poor treatment or care. 

Any patient or relative who has immediate concerns to call our special Information Line on 0800 180 4514 which will be open from 3 pm to 8 pm from Wednesday 7th November and from 8 am to 8 pm Monday to Friday thereafter. 

"For any women who have worries about their current health they should contact their own GP or contact NHS Direct on 0845 46 47. 

In relation to Mr Jones and his clinical practice Mrs Boswell said: "Mr Jones is no longer employed by RCHT and has not worked at the hospital since May 2012. 

The General Medical Council (GMC) is aware of the situation and he is no longer on the medical register." 

"As the new Chief Executive I am very clear, I will not tolerate poor clinical practice at RCHT. Patients in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly deserve the very best care and we the Trust Board are committed to ensure that any lessons are learned."