Compensation considered for rheumatology patients

The standard of care provided by Jersey's rheumatology service was "well below" acceptable standards, according to a review

Jersey's government could launch a group compensation scheme for patients found by a review to have been given the wrong diagnoses or medication for joint and muscle problems.

It comes after a report by the Royal College of Physicians (RCP) found the standard of care provided by Jersey's rheumatology service was "well below" an acceptable standard.

Deputy Tom Binet, minister for health and social services, said he was committed to publishing an action plan by the end of June to ensure the completion of recommendations included within the review.

Lawyers have said a "significant number" of people want to take legal action against Jersey's health department.

Deputy Tom Binet said work was continuing "at pace" to reassess rheumatology patients

The RCP review of rheumatology services noted cases with "no evidence of clinical examination" and incorrect diagnoses "on occasions".

Answering questions from politicians about the government's response to the report, Mr Binet said "collective compensation" was being explored.

He said: "As expected, we've received a number of potential compensation claims which are currently being managed through a standard claims process.

"We're continuing to explore alternative, collective compensation schemes which may help to make the situation more manageable."

Mr Binet also told the States Assembly:

• Officials were in the process of appointing a new, specialist rheumatologist to lead the service

• Some patients had already been given different diagnoses and medication following reassessments and work was continuing "at pace" to review the wider group of patients

• That "much more robust clinical governance processes" were being developed throughout the health service

Health and Community Services published the RCP review in January 2024.

It was commissioned following concerns raised in January 2022 by a junior doctor.

The document also expanded on previous criticism of the prescribing of biologic drugs, saying "in many cases" their use was "out with both UK and European guidance".