'Critical incidents' uncovered in Manitoba pathologist's work

A review of work by a Manitoba pathologist has uncovered five critical incidents in biopsy results.

Diagnostic Services Manitoba, which oversees public labs in the province, stated Friday that more than 3,000 cases were reviewed since a potential issue with the pathologist's work was identified last summer.

Of the five critical incidents, two involved patients who were initially reported as benign, but the amended report confirmed early cancer.

Three involved patients who were told they had cancer, but it turned out they needed additional treatment.

Another 132 cases of pathological discrepancy were identified but in those cases, major changes in treatment weren't required.

The agency won't name the pathologist, whois no longer employed by DSM.

"Patient care is paramount," Jim Slater, CEO of DSM, stated in a news release. "Throughout the review process physicians were contacted as soon as a discrepancy was discovered and were asked to contact their patients as soon as possible.

"We also set up a phone line for patients to contact with any concerns, which received 99 calls and each one was followedup on.

It has been an extremely difficult time for everyone involved in the review process. Especially for the patients whose cases were reviewed and where discrepancies occurred.

"I would like to reiterate that we regret the anxiety that has been felt by patients and their families. We have learned a great deal from this experience and are committed to strengthening our policies and procedures."