Health minister apologises after patients harmed by neurologist

A final report into the care provided by neurologist Michael Watt finds some patients were misdiagnosed and received inappropriate treatment. 

Northern Ireland health minister Robbie Butler has apologised for failings in the care of patients treated by consultant neurologist Michael Watt. A final report into the cases has now been published by the Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority (RQIA). 

It found that patients were harmed in some cases by delayed or incorrect diagnoses, inappropriate treatment and failures in communication and support.

The report reinforces significant failings identified in an earlier review published in 2022.

The RQIA said poor diagnostic practice, inadequate communication, isolated clinical decision-making and weak multidisciplinary oversight meant standards of care “frequently fell below expectations”.

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Source: Healthcare Today, 25 September 2026