AN appeal for more victims of the ‘butcher’ surgeon Ian Paterson to come forward has been launched by an independent inquiry into his crimes.
The families and friends of the patients wounded and maimed by the disgraced consultant are also urged to get in contact.
The inquiry has heard from more than 150 patients and their families face to face and from many more in writing.
In December, the government announced the inquiry after Paterson’s conviction for conducting a series of needless breast operations – the motive for which remains unclear.
The aim of the inquiry is to understand what can be learned from the circumstances surrounding his malpractice – in the NHS and private sector.
In April last year, Paterson was found guilty of 17 counts of wounding with intent and sentenced to jail for 20 years.
Paterson was a consultant breast surgeon employed at hospitals run by the Heart of England NHS Foundation Trust.
He also practised privately at Bupa hospitals in Solihull and Sutton Coldfield, latterly run by Spire Healthcare.
We reported in September that some 750 patients are claiming compensation from the healthcare provider.
The chair of the inquiry, The Right Reverend Graham James, Lord Bishop of Norwich, made a commitment that it would be informed by the concerns of former patients.
He said: “The interests of all patients, whether they are treated in the NHS or the private sector, should be at the heart of this inquiry.”
Issues raised by patients, their families and other interested parties will inform the report expected in summer next year.
The founder of the support group for Paterson’s private patients, Sarah Jane Downing, said: “The criminal trial focused on some of Paterson’s victims but there were many more people affected than those whose cases were heard during criminal proceedings.
“We asked if everyone, who wanted to, would be able to have their say to see if there was a pattern to what happened with patients.
“There were also questions about whether former colleagues of Paterson would be compelled to give evidence.”
As the inquiry is non-statutory, the team does not have the power to compel witnesses to give a testimony.
In September it was announced Paterson’s victims would receive compensation from a £37million fund.
The terms of reference are published on the inquiry’s website www.patersoninquiry.org.uk.
People can get in touch with the inquiry through its website www.patersoninquiry.org.uk, by calling 0207 972 1295 or by emailing [email protected].
