We have just learned that the GMC has allowed disgraced Consultant Surgeon, David Jackson, to remove himself from the Medical Register on a voluntary basis.
The decision came after a GMC panel heard evidence on the issue in private, (excluding the public, including patients and their relatives who were victims of Jackson).
Dr David Jackson operated as a Consultant Surgeon at the Kent and Canterbury Hospital and the Chaucer Hospital in Canterbury, as well as the QEQM hospital Margate and the Queen Victoria Memorial Hospital Herne Bay, over many years.
He faced no fewer than 75 charges of inappropriate and incorrect treatment pertaining to 16 patients in relation to breast surgery, surgery for colon cancer and cosmetic surgery.
The allegations spanned 1989 through to 2007.
In 2007 he was sacked by the East Kent Hospitals University NHS Foundation Trust and referred to the GMC.
Ever since the GMC has failed to deal with the case effectively.
Thus, it has taken an incredible 7 years for his victims not to get justice from the Regulatory body.
Nick Fairweather, Chief Executive of Fairweathers Solicitors LLP of Whitstable, who have, and continue, to represent many of Jackson’s victims, commented:-
“We have acted for many clients who have been the victims of Dr David Jackson’s botched surgery and after care.
He belonged to an era when Surgeons were allowed to behave without any proper checks, supervision or management.
In consequence, he undertook surgery that he was not competent to perform, particularly (but not exclusively) in the areas of cosmetic surgery, colorectal surgery and breast augmentation or reconstruction.
The consequences for our clients have been devastating.
During the period that the GMC has been charged with dealing with the cases we have successfully dealt with a whole string of civil cases.
We have more cases ongoing.
In my opinion the whole system of regulation needs, now, a radical overhaul.
The GMC, once again, has proved itself not fit for purpose.
A proper, independent judge led body, with patient safety at the heart of its purpose and functioning, now needs to be urgently established, in place of the current procedures which encourage delay and secrecy and fail to hold people to account which, ultimately, is not in the best interests of patients or anyone.”
Nick Fairweather and Margaret Erskine appeared on BBS South East in relation to this matter earlier this year. To view the coverage please see below: