Hospital scientist struck off for falsifying test results

Biomedical scientist Christopher Biggins was working for Sheffield Teaching Hospitals Trust when he performed osmolality tests – which may be used to diagnose diabetes or kidney disease – once rather than the twice which is required under trust policy.

He then falsified a second result, to pretend that a valid test had been undertaken.

At a heading in London, a Health Professions Council panel heard how Mr Biggins deliberately falsified test results for nine patients. The false results were then used to diagnose and treat those patients.

The panel also heard that Mr Biggins didn't dispute the allegations and had stopped working, after a 30-year career.

Panel board chairman Ian Griffiths said: "The registrant falsified results of testing which is carried out when a patient is diagnosed with abnormally low sodium levels.

"Such tests are used when a patient is suspected of suffering from diabetes, kidney disease, to measure in toxins in the patients' blood, when a patient has suffered a head injury and to establish the level of hydration.

"When Christopher Biggins was interviewed about these matters he offered no qualification, explanation, insight or remorse for his actions."