Lawyer Criticises Continued Neglect of Rheumatology Patients

Law Firm Condemns Jersey's Refusal to Compensate Affected Rheumatology Patients

A law firm representing dozens of patients caught up in Jersey’s rheumatology care scandal has criticised the government’s decision not to establish a compensation scheme, calling it a second betrayal for those already harmed.

The backlash follows a damning 2023 review that revealed multiple patients were misdiagnosed and given incorrect treatments within the island’s rheumatology service.

Despite an earlier indication that a compensation scheme was under consideration, Jersey’s Health Department has now confirmed that no such mechanism is in place. Patients seeking redress have been advised to pursue legal action independently.

Giles Emmanuel, a partner at Viberts law firm, described the move as “bitterly disappointing”.

“Our clients feel they’ve been let down not just once by the healthcare system, but now again by the government’s refusal to take responsibility,” he said.

Viberts, which represents a “significant number” of affected individuals, said legal action would continue. “This is not the end. In many cases, it’s just the beginning,” Emmanuel added, noting the firm intends to pursue claims through the Royal Court where necessary.

The Health Department stated that patients can access legal guidance through local firms or seek advice from Citizens Advice Jersey. It also reported that 12 of the 17 recommendations from the independent review have been implemented, with the remaining five close to completion.

The review previously found the standard of rheumatology care had fallen “well below” acceptable levels.