HSE Issues Apology to Couple Over Misdiagnosis of Fetal Condition

The Health Service Executive (HSE) has issued a formal apology to a couple from Dublin who were wrongly advised that their unborn child had a fatal fetal abnormality. Bernard Gloster, the chief executive of HSE, expressed deep regret on behalf of the health service after the couple made the devastating decision to terminate their pregnancy based on a misdiagnosis.

Background of the Case

In 2019, Rebecca Price and Pat Kiely from Phibsborough were informed by the National Maternity Hospital that their healthy baby boy had Trisomy 18, a serious chromosomal condition also known as Edwards Syndrome. Following this diagnosis, which was later confirmed to be incorrect, the couple opted for a termination of the pregnancy.

After a protracted legal battle, the couple reached a settlement with the National Maternity Hospital, the Merrion Fetal Health Clinic, and a laboratory in Glasgow in June 2021. All parties accepted full liability for the misdiagnosis. This outcome highlighted the severe implications of clinical errors in prenatal care.

HSE’s Apology and Future Steps

In a statement released on Saturday, Gloster shared that he had personally met with Price and Kiely, offering them a heartfelt apology for the loss of their son, whom they named Christopher. He emphasized that while no apology could erase the pain they endured, it was essential to formally document their experience and acknowledge the harm caused by the health service.

“I recognize that no words or actions can undo the loss suffered by Rebecca and Pat, but I hope the establishment of an independent review will allow us to understand what went wrong in relation to their care and learn from it,” said Gloster.

Gloster also announced intentions to initiate an independent external review to thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding the couple’s care. This review aims to ensure that similar mistakes can be avoided in the future, potentially protecting other families from similar heartbreak.

Following the misdiagnosis, Price underwent a series of tests, including a normal ultrasound and a non-invasive prenatal test, which indicated the presence of Trisomy 18. Despite receiving a subsequent normal ultrasound, the couple was advised to proceed with further testing, which ultimately led to the erroneous conclusion of a fatal condition.

Reflecting on their ordeal, Kiely remarked in a 2021 interview that the experience had fundamentally changed them as individuals. Price added that if their story could help prevent similar failures in the future and safeguard the lives of other children, it would bring some solace to their loss.

The case has sparked broader discussions about the accuracy of prenatal testing and the need for stringent protocols to prevent misdiagnoses in the future. As the HSE works towards addressing these concerns, the couple’s experience serves as a poignant reminder of the critical importance of precise medical communication and care.