Ahead of a meeting of the parliamentary health committee, MP Djuna Bernard of The Greens (Déi Gréng) spoke on RTL Radio about the case of suspended orthopaedic surgeon Dr Philippe Wilmes, whose ban on performing operations has recently been extended by 21 months. Bernard stressed that politicians must rely on expert assessments in such cases.
The panel consisted of three specialists, one appointed by Wilmes himself, one by the Ministry of Health, and a third independent doctor agreed upon by both sides. She said that, at this stage, she sees no reason to doubt their conclusions, even if the full file has not yet been examined by MPs.
The case is being discussed in the Chamber’s health committee, where MPs from The Greens had requested an exchange with the Medical Council. According to Bernard, it is crucial that this body, which oversees the medical profession, has the means to function properly.
She noted that the Wilmes case, along with others, has highlighted how important it is to have transparent, efficient, and reliable procedures in place.
According to Bernard, a broader debate is currently underway within the healthcare sector over whether the Medical Council has sufficient resources. She said it is important for lawmakers to engage with the body and assess proposed reforms, particularly to draw lessons from recent cases and ensure the quality of medical care going forward.
She also pointed out that, alongside the urgent suspension procedure, a standard disciplinary process is ongoing, and that the Medical Council must be given the necessary time to carry out its work properly. At this stage, she said, MPs have not yet received further details, but she expressed confidence in the institution’s ability to handle the case.
Finally, Bernard emphasised the need to strengthen patients’ rights, an issue she believes does not receive enough attention. She called for greater transparency, proper reporting mechanisms in hospitals, and a more patient-centred approach, including the right to ask questions and seek a second opinion.
Ensuring that oversight bodies such as the Medical Council function effectively would help restore trust in the healthcare system, she concluded.
