Settlement reached in neurology case

A settlement has been reached by partner Claire McDaid acting on behalf of FN in an action for personal injury against the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust arising from medical care, advice and treatment provided by Dr Watt, a former Consultant Neurologist with the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust.

FN initially attended ophthalmology services in the Royal Victoria Hospital, reporting decreased vision, headaches, hearing loss and nausea. She was referred to neurology.

In July 2013, FN attended with Dr Watt, who suggested she was suffering from Multiple Sclerosis. FN experienced further neurological symptoms, including blurred vision and sensory limb disturbances, and in September 2014, Dr Watt made a diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis. FN was commenced on disease modifying therapy in January 2015. This treatment plan continued until the recall of patients of Dr Watt was initiated in June 2018.

During the recall process, FN attended with clinicians who diagnosed fibromyalgia and functional neurological disorder (FND), diagnoses which were supported by MRI and other investigations, which investigations did not support the diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis.

On this basis, FN instituted a claim against the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust. Damages were sought for personal injury sustained by reason of an incorrect diagnosis and prescription of unnecessary medications, pain and suffering, loss of earnings and loss of amenity.

Expert liability evidence was sought from a Consultant Neurologist, which supported the claim that the care provided was below the standard accepted by a reasonable body of medical opinion as a reasonable practice. Causation evidence was obtained from a consultant pharmacologist who outlined the impact the medications had on FN.  Accountancy evidence was also obtained to document the extent of the financial loss sustained by FN, who was unable to work for a number of years during the relevant period.

Liability was admitted by the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust and following negotiations between Counsel in summer 2025, a settlement was reached which compensated FN for her losses.

If you or someone in your family wishes to enquire about a potential action against Dr Watt or the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust, please contact Claire McDaid on 02890434015 or email [email protected] to discuss.