Government Launches Inquiry into Spina Bifida and Scoliosis Care

The Government of Ireland has initiated a statutory public inquiry into the services provided for individuals with spina bifida and complex scoliosis. This decision comes after significant advocacy from families affected by these conditions, particularly in light of the tragic case of nine-year-old Harvey Morrison Sherratt, who passed away in July 2023.

The inquiry aims to investigate the challenges and effectiveness of current healthcare services for children suffering from these conditions. A facilitator will be appointed shortly to engage with various stakeholders to develop the inquiry’s terms of reference. The Department of Health plans to collaborate with the Office of the Attorney General to ensure that this process is comprehensive and transparent.

Inquiry Process and Stakeholder Engagement

In a statement released this evening, the Government emphasized the importance of creating well-defined terms of reference for the inquiry. “This will be a time-bound exercise, but there is a considerable body of work to be undertaken,” the statement noted. It highlighted that all concerns raised by families and other stakeholders will be taken into careful consideration to achieve the desired outcomes.

Following the completion of this initial scoping exercise, the Government will seek further approval for the final terms of reference. This process is expected to provide clarity and direction regarding the inquiry’s focus and methodology.

The announcement follows a meeting between Gillian Sherratt, Harvey’s mother, and Health Minister Jennifer Carroll MacNeill, along with Tánaiste Simon Harris. Mrs. Sherratt expressed her gratitude for the Government’s responsiveness to their situation, stating that an agreement has been reached to hold the inquiry. This meeting transpired after the Sunday Times reported allegations that Harvey was removed from the surgical waiting list due to a misunderstanding regarding his medical status.

Background on Harvey Morrison Sherratt

Harvey, from Clondalkin in Dublin, had been on a waiting list for spinal surgery since February 2022. He underwent the operation in November 2022 after a prolonged period of uncertainty. His case has drawn attention to the broader issues surrounding the healthcare system’s handling of children with spina bifida and scoliosis.

The inquiry is expected to shed light on systemic issues that may have contributed to delays and miscommunication within the healthcare services, ultimately aiming to enhance care for affected families. The Government’s commitment to this inquiry reflects a growing awareness of the challenges faced by families and advocates in navigating the healthcare landscape for specialized needs.

As the inquiry progresses, further details will emerge about the specific areas of concern that will be investigated, along with the anticipated timeline for the inquiry’s completion. Families, advocates, and healthcare professionals await the outcomes, hopeful for improvements to services that can significantly impact the lives of children living with these conditions.