Patient Calls Neurology Report “A Disgrace”

Published: 20 February 2026 . The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online

A report into the state of the neurology department in Jersey has drawn sharp criticism from a patient who described the service’s shortcomings as “a disgrace,” underscoring growing frustration over delays in diagnosis and heavy workload pressures within the health system.

The external review, carried out by the Royal College of Physicians (RCP), highlighted significant weaknesses in the island’s neurology services, including reliance on a single consultant who recently retired and staff working “beyond their job plans” to keep the service functioning.

Among those voicing concern was Sophie Reid, a 37‑year‑old resident diagnosed with a brain tumour in 2024, who said the failings she experienced made her feel abandoned by the system. She told reporters that when she suffered a seizure at work, she was sent home without being offered a CT scan, only learning of her tumour later after requesting urgent imaging through her GP. “It’s another department that’s been left to go to pieces,” she said, calling the situation “a disgrace.”

Reid’s comments reflect wider patient concern and echo criticism from other community members on social media, who say delays in tests and poor communication about care have added to anxiety and distress.

Health officials responded to the report by stressing steps already taken to address recommendations from the RCP, which include developing workforce plans and improving administrative support for the neurology team. Simon West, medical director for Health and Care Jersey, described the review as “very positive,” while acknowledging that “there’s still more work to be done” and that an action plan is now in place.

Deputy Karen Wilson, a registered nurse, also weighed in, expressing concern about the pace of change and saying that many patients have been let down “because of unmanageable workloads and slow responses to fundamental problems.”

Health authorities have said they are incorporating the RCP recommendations into a broader medicine recovery plan, which will be monitored monthly, and a recruitment process to hire a new consultant neurologist is underway with interviews scheduled in March.

The neurology review adds to wider debate in Jersey about healthcare capacity, clinical governance and how best to support both patients and staff in specialised medical services amid increasing demand.

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