Six patients in Oxfordshire found to have breast cancer, despite “all clear” from their radiologist

Following concerns over the treatment provided by a radiologist at the Oxfordshire Breast Screening Service, 626 women had their breast cancer screenings reassessed by Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust. Of these 626, 30 assessments between 2011 and 2014 were considered insufficient – these women were recalled. Unfortunately, it has been found that six of the 30 patients do in fact have breast cancer, despite being given the “all clear” at the time.

While the Trust has apologised for the substandard assessments and stopped the radiologist from undertaking any further assessments, the effect of the delayed diagnosis upon the six women is not yet known.

Given that the earlier breast cancer is diagnosed, the better the outcome, it is vital to be diagnosed and treated at the earliest possible point.

Further investigations into the work of the radiologist are being carried out by the NHS Breast Screening Programme, the NHS Trust and Public Health England. However, the radiologist has not yet been identified and this will undoubtedly cause concern for many women in and around Oxfordshire.

If you or a loved one have concerns about medical treatment received, contact us free of charge and in confidence for support and specialist legal advice on 0808 1593 603. Alternatively, you can complete this form and one of the solicitors in the Medical Negligence team will contact you. You can find out more about the team here.