
Review of Consultation with Mr. Paul Harnett (Cleveland Clinic Hospital)
Having recently had a consultation and treatment with Mr. Paul Harnett, I wanted to share my honest experience.
After sustaining a spinal injury abroad, I was advised by a chiropractor upon returning to the UK to have an MRI scan and seek further medical advice. I was recommended to see Mr. Harnett, as he is an orthopaedic trauma specialist.
At my first consultation at Cleveland Clinic Hospital, I provided Mr. Harnett with my medical discharge note and CT scan images from abroad, which indicated two old spinal fractures (including at T12). Following this appointment, I underwent a thoracic and lumbar MRI.
My follow-up consultation was conducted over the phone, during which I was informed that I had sustained a new fracture and was advised to rest for four weeks before gradually resuming normal movement and exercise. I later received a written report summarising the findings.
However, I found the report somewhat unclear and lacking in detail. It also appeared inconsistent with the earlier CT findings. As a result, I contacted Mr. Harnett’s secretary to request another consultation for clarification. This was arranged for 15:30, but by 16:00, I had still not received a call. When I phoned the secretary, I was advised that he was running late. I had another meeting scheduled for 16:15, so we agreed to reschedule the consultation for 18:30. I eventually received the call at 19:15, which I found unacceptable given the lack of communication and delay.
During the consultation, I found Mr. Harnett’s manner and engagement disappointing. He appeared disinterested and seemed eager to conclude the call quickly. I was verbally informed that the T12 fracture was actually new — which directly contradicted earlier information.
When I asked for further advice regarding pain management and medication, I was advised to contact my GP. This was particularly disappointing, as I had chosen to go private with the expectation of receiving more comprehensive care and reassurance.
In summary, I did not find my experience reassuring or helpful. Communication was inconsistent, and the overall approach left me without the clarity or confidence I had hoped for. I am now seeking a second opinion to gain a more detailed understanding of my condition and the best course of treatment going forward.