A REVIEW into the temporary suspension of Emergency General Surgery at South West Acute Hospital (SWAH) is nearing completion, according to Health Minister Mike Nesbitt. 

In response to a question from DUP MLA Deborah Erskine about the discussions involving the Department of Health, the Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority (RQIA), and the Western Health and Social Care Trust, Minister Nesbitt revealed that the "information gathering phase" has concluded.

The RQIA was commissioned by the Department of Health to conduct a focused review assessing the pathways created as a result of the surgical suspension, with the aim of identifying potential improvements. The Western Health and Social Care Trust has welcomed the review.

Minister Nesbitt stressed the necessity of maintaining the review's independence, indicating that discussions with the RQIA have been focused on relevant information and progress updates. 

The Minister added: "I can advise that information gathering for the review has finished and a report detailing its findings is nearing completion.

"I expect to receive and consider the report in the coming weeks."