Accounts of patient and doctor contradictory, inquiry told
A fitness to practise inquiry yesterday retired to consider a decision on consultant obstetrician Dr Patrick (Gerry) Raff-erty, who faces allegations of professional misconduct in relation to two of his patients.
One of the women, Michelle Howe, was rushed to hospital where she had to undergo an emergency procedure after suffering an ectopic pregnancy. This occurs when an embryo develops outside of the womb and, if left untreated, can be potentially fatal.
The other woman, Cathy Coyle, lost the use of one of her kidneys after signs it was not functioning properly were not followed up.
Mrs Howe has given evidence that Dr Rafferty told her in a phonecall on Jun 6, 2008, that her pregnancy was not ectopic but was instead non-continuing.
However, Dr Rafferty has insisted he told Mrs Howe she had an ectopic pregnancy and should make arrangements to admit herself to hospital.
Yesterday, a solicitor representing the CEO of the Medical Council, which is taking the case against Dr Rafferty, said Mrs Howe was a compelling witness but that Dr Rafferty had already conceded on two occasions that his account of other events could not be relied upon.
Dr Rafferty’s counsel, Simon Mills, said it was not necessary for the committee to determine that someone is lying or misleading anyone.
The allegations against Dr Rafferty include that he failed to diagnose Mrs Howe’s ectopic pregnancy despite clinical evidence, that he failed to admit her for a laparoscopy exam, and failed to make adequate arrangements in advance to admit her to hospital.
Dr Rafferty has admitted to one allegation in relation to his treatment of Ms Coyle, namely that he failed to refer her to a urologist following tests which showed her kidneys were not functioning properly.
The inquiry committee will deliver its ruling on Apr 15.
