Neurology department lauded for devotion yet stretched thin, says review

Health specialists have voiced alarm about mounting workload pressures within Jersey’s neurology service.

A review by the Royal College of Physicians found the service, based at the Enid Quenault Health and Wellbeing Centre - had depended heavily on a single consultant who has now retired, leaving a team described as committed but under significant strain.

The college issued several recommendations, including creating a clear plan to determine future staffing needs and reviewing the level of administrative support available.

Tom Binet said officials had established an action plan to carry out the proposed changes.

The report’s author, Emma-Kate Reed, said the team had continued delivering patient care despite “major structural weaknesses”. She warned the service remained fragile because of its reliance on a very small workforce, inadequate long-term planning and shortcomings in governance.

Reed also highlighted concerns about prescribing practices during the January–February 2025 review period, noting the absence of a dedicated neurology pharmacist had contributed to unsafe or less-than-optimal medication decisions.

Delays and prescribing concerns

According to the report, some prescriptions sent to the pharmacy were inappropriate, including migraine treatments issued outside recommended guidelines. It also pointed to delays in diagnostic testing and inefficient pathways for hospital inpatients.

Despite the issues, Reed said staff showed a strong determination to improve services.

“The review team believes there are solid foundations for developing a new model of care, supported by a workforce clearly committed to achieving better outcomes for patients,” she said.