HSE Issues Apology to Couple Over Incorrect Fatal Foetal Abnormality Advice Leading to Pregnancy Termination

The Health Service Executive (HSE) has announced an independent external review of a tragic case involving a couple, Rebecca Price and Pat Kiely, who terminated their pregnancy in 2019 based on incorrect medical advice. The review aims to investigate the circumstances surrounding the misleading information regarding a fatal foetal abnormality.

Background of the Case

In December 2018, Rebecca and Pat learned they were expecting a child. Their excitement turned to devastation when they were informed about a potential fatal foetal abnormality in early 2019. Following a series of consultations and tests, including two ultrasound scans at the Merrion Fetal Health Clinic, they were advised that their unborn baby had Trisomy 18, a severe chromosomal condition.

Misdiagnosis and Termination

During a consultation on March 11, 2019, Rebecca was wrongly informed by her consultant, Professor Fionnuala McAuliffe, that their baby had a fatal foetal abnormality. Acting on this advice, the couple made the heart-wrenching decision to terminate the pregnancy just three days later at the National Maternity Hospital. Subsequent tests revealed that their child did not have Edward’s Syndrome.

Acknowledgment of Loss

HSE CEO Bernard Gloster personally apologized to Rebecca and Pat for their loss and confirmed the agency’s commitment to learn from this case. “While nobody can undo the harm the Kielys have suffered, they deserve a documented and unequivocal apology on behalf of the health service,” said Gloster.

Independent Review Established

The HSE is currently in the process of finalizing the details of the review, including appointing an independent leader with the necessary expertise. The goal of this review is to understand what went wrong in the couple’s care and ensure that lessons are learned to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

Previous Legal Actions

The couple had previously settled a High Court case against the National Maternity Hospital, several consultants, and a laboratory in Glasgow regarding this misdiagnosis. In 2021, they called for a public inquiry into their case, emphasizing that no settlement could alleviate the profound grief they continue to experience.

• Key Dates:
  • December 24, 2018: Couple learns they are expecting a child.
  • February 2019: Normal ultrasound followed by a positive Harmony test for Trisomy 18.
  • March 11, 2019: Misdiagnosis and subsequent recommendation for termination.
  • Termination occurs on March 14, 2019.
• Trisomy 18 (Edward’s Syndrome):
  • Rare chromosomal condition.
  • Most affected babies do not survive long after birth.

This case underscores the critical importance of accurate medical diagnosis and the profound impact that miscommunication can have on families. The HSE’s commitment to an independent review reflects a dedication to transparency and accountability in healthcare.