I recently attended a medical negligence conference in Central London, where one of the key themes was the experiences of women in healthcare. Against that backdrop, it was deeply disturbing to read a recent BBC investigation (Women traumatised by breast cancer treatment at NHS trust, BBC told – BBC News) into County Durham and Darlington Foundation Trust (CDDFT), which uncovered shocking failures that left women harmed and stripped of dignity.
As a firm having dealt with a number of the cases against Mr Ian Paterson in an earlier breast cancer scandal it is alarming and worrying to see many of the same themes recurring and to see that lessons have not be learned.
What happened at CDDFT?
The investigation revealed systemic issues in breast cancer care at the trust:
- Over 200 cases are under review, with 43 involving significant harm and one death being investigated.
- Patients reported feeling “butchered” after unnecessary mastectomies and rushed surgeries.
- Almost 50% of women treated had mastectomies, compared to the UK average of 27%.
- Only 7.5% received immediate breast reconstruction, far below the recommended minimum of 25%.
- Some operations were completed in under 30 minutes, raising serious concerns about safety and quality.
The Independent Review highlighted outdated clinical practices that failed to meet best-practice guidelines, leading to delayed diagnoses and a high rate of repeat surgeries (“re-excision”). Alarmingly, these issues echo similar failings seen in other NHS units, such as the Leicester Oral and Maxillofacial service.
Financial and ethical concerns
The report also revealed that nearly £6 million was paid to private clinics run by the trust’s lead surgeon. This arrangement created potential conflicts of interest and raises serious questions about oversight and the standard of care provided to NHS patients in private settings. Worryingly, this is the second recent case to raise concerns about clinicians’ ethical practices where financial interests are involved.
A lack of compassion
Beyond clinical failings, patients described a lack of dignity and compassion, with some procedures carried out without consent or pain relief. The Royal College of Surgeons condemned the service as “an appalling indictment” of breast care standards.
How we can help
Breast cancer treatment should never compromise safety, dignity, or trust. These findings highlight the importance of accountability and patient rights. If you or a loved one has experienced breast cancer negligence, you may be entitled to compensation.
We specialise in:
- Breast cancer misdiagnosis claims
- Delayed diagnosis compensation
- Unnecessary surgery claims
- NHS medical negligence cases
Contact our medical negligence solicitors
Our team understands the emotional and physical impact of these failures and will guide you through the process with compassion and expertise. Call us free on 0808 164 0808 today.
