Rebecca, the CEO of the HSE, has apologized to a couple who terminated their pregnancy after being wrongly informed that their baby had a fatal foetal abnormality. The couple’s decision was based on the incorrect medical assessment, and the apology acknowledges the distress and harm caused by the misdiagnosis.
Summary of key facts:
- An HSE-led medical team informed the couple that their healthy fetus had a fatal abnormality.
- The couple terminated the pregnancy based on this incorrect information.
- The HSE CEO issued an apology for the misdiagnosis and its consequences.
- The case highlights failures in communication and diagnostic accuracy that led to a life-altering decision.
Quotes:
- "The diagnostic error occurred, and we recognise the immense impact it had on the couple."
- "We are deeply sorry for the distress and loss caused by this misjudgment."
Context and notes:
- The article details the course of events leading to the decision to terminate, followed by subsequent validation that the fetus did not have a fatal condition.
- The apology signals accountability and an intent to review procedures to prevent a recurrence.
Author’s summary (120–200 characters):
HSE chief apologizes for a misdiagnosis that led a healthy-pregnancy couple to terminate, acknowledging harm and outlining steps to prevent recurrence.
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The Journal — 2025-12-07