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LONDON DAILY ARCHIVE

Michael Watt: Former neurologist's performance 'unacceptable'

The professional performance of a neurologist at the centre of Northern Ireland's biggest ever patient recall was unacceptable, a tribunal has ruled.

02 November 2023 · 21:58 UTC

A tribunal's assessment of former neurologist Michael Watt's professional performance in Northern Ireland. The tribunal, initiated by the General Medical Council (GMC), found that Watt's performance was unacceptable in various aspects, including assessments, clinical management, record-keeping, and patient relationships.

The GMC raised concerns about incorrect diagnoses, inappropriate treatment, poor prescribing practices, and inadequate communication.

Watt has not practiced since 2017, and a new tribunal was convened to investigate the issues. Recently, his legal team withdrew from the process, citing concerns about his mental health. The tribunal continued in his absence, and it will determine whether his fitness to practice is impaired in a hearing scheduled for the following day.