Article Children’s Health Ireland Hip Surgeries
A number of concerned parents have been in contact with us on foot of an article published by investigative website The Ditch, concerning a whistleblower’s claim that a significant number of hip surgeries, performed in CHI Hospitals, were allegedly, “purely for financial gain”.
This article alleges that an audit was carried out by Children’s Health Ireland, verifying the whistleblower’s claims about unnecessary surgeries carried out on infants and children with suspected hip dysplasia in both the National Orthopaedic Hospital at Cappagh and Temple Street Children’s Hospital. According to the report, 98% of surgeries carried out at CHI Crumlin met the threshold normally required for these procedures to go ahead. However, 79% of surgeries carried out at Cappagh did not meet the threshold, and 60% of surgeries carried out at Temple Street did not meet the threshold. The report recommended that all 561 patients who underwent pelvic osteotomies at Cappagh and Temple Street between 2021 and 2023 be recalled.
This has undoubtedly given rise to massive worries for the parents of the young children. Some families are now, according to the Irish Independent, receiving letters about surgeries carried out 15 years ago. If true, the allegations could mean that hundreds of children and babies underwent unnecessary major, invasive surgeries. Huge ethical issues arise, and the State could face a deluge of lawsuits.
It may prove necessary for the Department of Health to step in should this likely scenario arise, as there may be a huge liability for the state. Health Minister Caroll McNeill has confirmed that letters have been sent to families who may be affected, dating back as far as 2010. Ms. McNeill said that an action plan is currently being drafted in response to the report. Sinn Fein spokesman David Cullinane suggested that there could be thousands of families involved, if it is confirmed that these hip surgeries have been taking place since 2010.
Comparisons can be drawn with the South Kerry CAMHS controversy. Due to the number of children involved, and the span of years, the State rightly set up a compensation scheme. This minimises the risk and stress for already traumatized families, and ensures speedy redress for the children affected. Those minor children who were involved with South Kerry CAMHS could apply for enrolment to the scheme. This meant that the children did not need to prove wrongdoing, only what harm they had come to.
A similar model should be put in place here, and if the allegations about CHI are true, families should not be subjected to long and arduous litigation, having to prove that they were subjected to wrongdoing. Swift and fair compensation should be offered to any child affected.
An anxious wait now ensues for the families getting these letters. Anyone concerned about their legal position should seek legal advice as soon as possible. If you wish to contact Kyle Flynn, please call 071-9162032.