'Frustrating' progress in Northern Ireland mesh centre

Plans for a regional centre to treat women affected by vaginal mesh implants have been delayed.

As a result of a joint initiative by the Public Health Agency and the Belfast Health and Social Care Trus, it had been proposed that a specific unit to be set up for women coping with problems following vaginal mesh implants. However, Sinn Féin MLA, Órlaithi Flynn, in an interview with BBC News NI, described the progress in the regional centre to be slow and frustrating.

In December she received a letter from the Permanent Health secretary, Richard Pengelly, confirming that the business case for the centre had been submitted and funding had been allocated.

Despite the delay, the Department of Health has given reassurance that the centre would be fully operational and open to women by March 2019.

Temporary suspension on the use of mesh

In July 2018, a temporary suspension was placed in Northern Ireland upon the use of surgical mesh in treating cases of urinary stress incontinence. This put into force the recommendations of Baroness Cumberlege who had advised that the use of mesh implants to be suspended until such times as all necessary steps had been taken to mitigate the risks to patients.

How is Thompsons NI supporting patients who are suffering from mesh complications?

Thompsons NI is currently representing a considerable number of local ladies who have suffered significant and often life-changing complications following the use of surgical mesh/ tape and supporting them through the process of making a medical negligence claim.

If you have been affected by the use of surgical mesh/ tape, Thompsons NI can support you. Contact our solicitors Joanne Kerr or Oonagh McClure in Belfast, on 0800 138 6880 for a free, no-obligation consultation.