Derek McMinn: Helpline launched for patients of surgeon at centre of body parts scandal

A private hospital at the centre of allegations that one of its surgeons, Derek McMinn, harvested thousands of bone and tissue samples from patients has launched a helpline after it was accused tried to cover-up what happened.

BMI Healthcare has listed the number on its website today after The Independent revealed on Tuesday that the police are investigating an alleged breach of legal and professional regulations over the collection of bones dating back 25 years.

Patients concerned whether they are affected can call the Edgbaston Hospital’s patient support team on 0800 096 2254.

McMinn is alleged to have collected the samples without full consent from his patients and with the help of hospital staff, who did not stop what he was doing until August last year when McMinn was suspended.

In an internal report prepared by BMI and seen by The Independent, McMinn is said to have started taking samples 25 years ago and intended to keep them for his retirement. Staff told investigators the samples were “to keep his mind active.”

McMinn had no licence from the Human Tissue Authority.

BMI Healthcare first learned of the allegations in March 2019 when tissue samples were found in a storage area.

Only after the Care Quality Commission raised concerns in July did the hospital stop McMinn from operating.

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