Inquiry into 182 Rheumatology Patient Deaths in Jersey Anticipated to Conclude Early Next Year

An inquiry into the fatalities of 182 rheumatology patients in Jersey since 2019 is anticipated to conclude early next year, according to the minister for health and social services. This investigation was initiated after an independent review delivered strong criticism of the service. Health Minister Deputy Tom Binet stated that a progress report would be submitted to the Health & Care Services Advisory Board in January, and the investigation is projected to conclude in the first quarter of 2025. He added that the report would include the updated number of cases referred to the Viscount and the number of cases still undergoing investigation. Dr Adrian Noon, chief of service for medicine, had previously indicated that 2,400 patients, who are currently alive, underwent a review in 2023. Chris Bown, the chief officer of the health department, affirmed that “any level of harm to patients was unacceptable” and that the department would be entering into discussions with lawyers concerning appropriate compensation.