The IDF fully supports the recommendations of the Paterson Inquiry

The President of the IDF, Dr Neil Haughton has strongly endorsed the recommendations of the Bishop of Norwich’s independent inquiry into the malpractice of former surgeon, Ian Paterson, and has issued the following statement:

“The Independent Doctors Federation (IDF) welcomes the Bishop of Norwich’s findings in the Paterson Inquiry and unreservedly condemns Paterson’s criminal actions.

The implications for his patients have been catastrophic and we fully sympathise with their situation. His crimes took place both in the NHS and private sector at a time when regulation and accountability were nowhere near as robust as they are now with GMC revalidation for all medical practitioners and regular CQC inspections.

Medical and surgical care is usually carried out to the highest standard in independent hospitals. However, we recognise that communication between sectors has on occasion been substandard and this is now also being improved through numerous initiatives.

The IDF has always sought to promote excellence in private medicine and we have robust processes in place as a designated body to facilitate this and to challenge unacceptable behaviour in our connected members.

Our thoughts today are with the victims of this surgeon and we will fully endorse any changes needed to improve safety in all areas of our profession."

Dr Neil Haughton, IDF President