Review prompts repeat bone density scans for over 200 patients
More than 200 hospital patients will be invited for a repeat bone density scan following an independent review of patient records conducted by specialist consultants, the Government of Jersey has announced.
The review examined over 1,000 patients who underwent bone densitometry scans between January 2017 and January 2022 and identified "potential concerns" regarding diagnosis and treatment recommendations for some individuals.
In 20 cases, the quality of patient care was found to have fallen "below the level that would have been expected," while approximately 250 patients require a repeat scan to "monitor any changes to bone density."
Simon West, medical director for Health and Care Jersey, issued an apology to those affected.
"I would like to sincerely apologise to any patients who have been affected and recalled for a scan as I understand receiving such news can be unsettling."
Bone densitometry scans, also known as Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) scans, use low-dose X-rays to measure bone density or strength. The results assist in diagnosing osteoporosis, assessing fracture risk, and evaluating body composition.
A spokesperson from Health and Care Jersey stated, "Potential issues with the reporting of bone densitometry scans were identified in September 2025 as part of work carried out during the review into rheumatology."
West explained that a new independent review was commissioned promptly after these "potential issues" were detected.
"Following the findings of the review, we have worked as quickly as possible to contact affected patients and to recall them for another scan,"
He added that island residents could "have confidence" in the current DEXA service and that their "swift action" demonstrates ongoing efforts to address issues from previous years while maintaining openness and transparency when problems arise.
'Continue taking medication'
The Government of Jersey has arranged additional clinics and Health and Care Jersey will begin inviting patients for re-scans, aiming to complete all appointments by the end of May 2026.
Patients are advised to continue taking medication as prescribed by their current specialists and general practitioners and to attend all scheduled appointments as usual.
The government confirmed there are "no issues" for patients scanned after January 2022, and those who have not received a recall appointment by the end of April 2026 are also unaffected.
A separate, earlier investigation into the deaths of 182 rheumatology patients in Jersey since 2019 was initiated following an independent review that was highly critical of the service.
Patients with concerns are encouraged to contact the Patient Advice and Liaison Service.
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