Several clinical negligence cases have been reported in Coventry concerning the extended use of temozolomide chemotherapy. This has affected the lives of patients, impacting their education and career options and making the prospect of starting a family challenging.

The University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire (UHCW) NHS Trust acknowledged that the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) only recommends using temozolomide for six months. However, it was revealed recently that at least one patient received the drug for over 15 years!

Chief Executive Officer at UHCW, Prof. Andy Hardy, told the BBC HERE , “We take very seriously any allegation that care provided by a member of staff, past or present, may have fallen below the standards we would expect for our patients. I can confirm we are undertaking an internal review of this matter and, once that has been completed, we will consider what further steps may be necessary.”

Temozolomide is used to treat an aggressive form of brain tumour called glioblastoma. Only 2% of patients with this type of tumour survive longer than 10 years.

The discovery of these extended chemotherapy treatments has prompted calls for a thorough investigation and accountability for the affected patients. Brindley Twist Tafft and James, home to Coventry and Warwickshire’s leading medical negligence team, is closely monitoring the situation and offering support to those affected. Medical negligence law allows patients who have suffered harm due to substandard care by medical professionals to seek compensation. This legal framework ensures that healthcare providers are held accountable for their actions and that patients receive the justice they deserve.

The internal review by UHCW will be important in determining the extent of the situation and ensuring that lapses in patient care do not occur in the future.

Please contact us for confidential advice if you or a close one has been affected in any way.