Royal Surrey review of children with epilepsy

The Royal Surrey County Hospital NHS Foundation Trust has commenced a patient case notes review, after concerns were raised about the medical practice of Dr Nic Driver, our Consultant Paediatrician with an interest in Epilepsy and Neurology. 

The case notes review of all the children he has seen with epilepsy or related disorders has been launched on the recommendation of independent experts in paediatric neurology, the British Paediatrics Neurology Association and the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health. 

This review concerns 569 patients who have been seen with epilepsy or a related disorder since Dr Driver’s appointment to the Trust in 2002. 

This group of patients has been written to regarding the review and the Trust has also contacted all of Dr Driver’s other patients without a diagnosis of epilepsy or related condition to reassure them that this review does not affect them. 

Medical Director Dr Christopher Tibbs said:   

“As soon as concerns were raised we instigated an initial internal review with two external experts.  As a result of that review and external recommendations we have now commenced a full review of Dr Driver’s patients with epilepsy or a related condition.   

“Our priority now is to ensure that the case notes review is concluded as quickly as possible and that we ensure that the patients affected receive the ongoing care and support they need.    

“It is not possible to comment any further on the possible outcome of the review and we must now focus all our efforts on a quick conclusion to the review and that patients are informed of the outcome and the next steps. 

“All the patients concerned have been written to and we have set up a dedicated helpline for them to ensure that we can respond to and deal with any concerns or queries they may have.” 

Chief Executive Nick Moberly said: 

“It is important to stress that the review is to establish the facts of what may or may not have happened, but I am very aware of the concern this review will cause and mine and our absolute priority is to provide as much support as possible for patients and families through this difficult time. 

“We will write to the patients affected again by the end of August with an update on the progress of the review.” 

An additional helpline has been set up for any members of the public who would like to discuss this issue: 01483 408379.  The helpline is open between 9am - 5pm Monday to Friday (including 23rd  and 24th July) Alternatively you can e-mail: rsc-tr.children@nhs.net