A tribunal is set to decide whether to sanction a psychiatrist over the death of a teenager with autism.
The Medical Practitioners Tribunal Service (MPTS) has been meeting to continue its probe into Dr Valerie Murphy’s failings over the death of Connor Sparrowhawk.
Connor Sparrowhawk: the clinician who was in charge of his care is set to learn whether she will be sanctioned
Murphy was the lead clinician in charge of the 18-year-old’s care. During this time Connor had an epileptic seizure and drowned in a bath at an NHS unit.
Murphy admitted 28 failings
At an earlier meeting of the MPTS, Murphy admitted 28 failings over the death of the teenager. The tribunal found a further nine proved, but rejected 18 other allegations.
The MTPS scheduled a series meeting this month (November 2017). It is also due to meet on two other dates yet to be arranged.
The purpose of the meetings is to decide whether to sanction the psychiatrist.
Tribunal sanctions will only apply in UK
But reports suggest that Murphy gave up her UK licence in 2014 before moving to Cork, where she now works. The MPTS has confirmed that any sanctions apply only to the UK.
Connor’s mother Sara Ryan has accused the NHS unit of “an almost wanton carelessness around the lives, and deaths, of patients”.
Murphy admitted shortcomings, including failing to carry out any risk assessments. She also failed to meet Connor’s clinical needs relating to his epilepsy and the bathroom.
Serious failings and more than 1,000 deaths
Connor, nicknamed laughing boy, died at Slade House, in Oxfordshire, in July 2013. Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust ran the unit.
An inquest found the trust committed a number of serious failings. These contributed to the death of the teenager, who had learning disabilities as well as autism.
Connor’s death led to the discovery that Southern Health had failed to properly investigate the deaths of more than 1,000 patients with learning disabilities or mental health problems.
Related:
- Mum reveals fight over Connor’s death
- Connor Sparrowhawk doctor still at work
- First step in justice for Connor?
- Percy’s former role not advertised
- Percy shunted out of £190k post
- Adults fear death in poor healthcare
- No trust in Southern Health NHS Trust
- Spotlight on hospital care
Published: 7 November 2017
