Posted: October 30th, 2015
A group of seven patients, whose gynaecologist had recently been found negligent by the Medical Council, have made claims for compensation after negligent hysterectomies.
Each woman filing for compensation received treatment from Dr Peter van Greene, who performed the allegedly negligent procedures between 2009 and 2011 at the Aut Even private hospital in Kilkenny. The gynaecologist was recently found guilty by the Medical Council’s Fitness to Practice Committee for two counts of poor professional performance.
Helen Cruise and three other women – who have remained anonymous – brought forward the complaints against Dr van Greene. Helen underwent a hysterectomy at the private facility, but told the Medical Council that the gynaecologist did not get her informed consent before the treatment was carried out.
She told the committee that the procedure, along with any risks associated with it, were not explained to her until after the administration of her anaesthetic.
Helen also told the council of how she needed 6 pints of blood after the operation because of excessive bleeding. Ever since, Helen has suffered from bouts of depression because of the poor standard of treatment.
The committee also heard evidence of how Dr van Greene, now unemployed, had recently filed for bankruptcy in the United Kingdom. Before becoming unemployed, Dr van Greene worked at the Whitfield Clinic in Waterford whilst the investigation into his alleged misconduct was carried out.
Though he has filed for bankruptcy, this does not prevent Dr van Greene’s patients from getting compensation if they are granted it. The settlements would be paid by Dr van Greene’s formed medical indemnity insurance company.
Categories: Medical Negligence
