The unfolding investigation into former consultant gynaecologist Daniel Hay has raised yet again serious questions about patient safety, medical oversight, and institutional accountability.
Background of the Daniel Hay case
Daniel Hay served as a consultant in obstetrics and gynaecology at University Hospitals of Derby and Burton NHS Foundation Trust until 2018, he performed numerous major surgical procedures, including hysterectomies and sterilisations. Concerns began to surface in late 2018 when his colleagues raised concerns, prompting NHS England and the Trust to launch a formal investigation into his clinical practices.
Allegations and findings
The NHS investigation reviewed the cases of 383 women. An interim report identified:
- “Major concern” that at least 50 women were likely to have been harmed.
- “Some concern” regarding an additional 69 women that have been harmed.
The central allegation is that Mr Hay adopted a “surgery-first” approach, often failing to offer or explain non-surgical alternatives. Many patients underwent life-altering procedures without being fully informed of the risks or options available.
Legal and criminal proceedings
Daniel Hay ceased clinical activity in June 2018 and retired in July 2020, citing mental health concerns. He relinquished his medical license in 2021. A criminal investigation was launched in 2022, with Derbyshire Police reviewing 42 patient cases and interviewing 91 witnesses. Mr Hay has been interviewed under caution, but as of now, no criminal charges have been filed.
Impact on patients
The emotional and physical toll on affected women has been profound. Many are only now discovering that their treatment may have been unnecessary.
The NHS Trust has issued formal apologies to a large number of women, acknowledging failures in care. However, the full report remains unpublished pending the outcome of the criminal investigation.
Our expertise
If you or someone you know was treated by Daniel Hay and have concerns, please contact us for some free advice. At Lime we are currently dealing with a large number of gynaecological cases where patients have not been properly consented for surgery, where there has been a failure to advise patients of the alternatives together with the pros and cons, allowing patients to weigh up the risks and benefits of each before proceeding. Call us free on 0808 164 0808 today.
