Colchester General Hospital investigated by police
The cancer unit at Colchester General Hospital is to be investigated by police after a Care Quality Commission (CQC) investigation revealed inaccuracies in their waiting time data regarding cancer treatment.
Staff revealed to CQC inspectors that they felt bullied and pressurised into falsifying data to make it seem as though patients were being treated in line with national guidelines for cancer patients.
NHS England is to commence an investigation to ensure the safety of cancer patients at the hospital and Essex Police are to consider whether a criminal investigation is now warranted.
Mark Bowman, Partner in our medical negligence team commented "These findings are incredibly worrying. Whilst it is clear that the vast majority of patients have received appropriate care, the suggestion that some staff felt that they must falsify documents in order to ensure compliance with national guidelines, is disturbing. It is hoped that a thorough investigation will root out the problem and ensure that all patients are receiving the care they deserve."