18.09.17
Hunt targets ‘a more open learning culture’ in NHS with new bill
A safety organisation will have new legal powers to investigate serious patient safety incidents in the NHS in England under plans tabled by Parliament this week.
The draft Health Service Safety Investigations Bill will look to enshrine in law the powers of the Health Service Safety Investigations Body (HSSIB).
This organisation will take forward the work of the Healthcare Safety Investigations Branch (HSIB), and is part of Jeremy Hunt’s ambition to create a “more open learning culture” across the NHS.
The HSSIB will be independent of the NHS and at arm’s-length to the government, with far-reaching access to investigate serious safety incidents or risks to patient safety.
After investigations into incidents are completed, the HSSIB will publish detailed reports that make recommendations for system-wide learning from the NHS, help develop national standards on investigations and provide advice, guidance and training to improve investigative practice across the health service.
“This draft bill represents a landmark moment for patient safety across our NHS, and is a historic opportunity to achieve widespread cultural change in learning from mistakes,” Hunt stated.
“When significant errors occur, it is vital that health organisations react quickly and decisively to share lessons and make improvements. To achieve this, we need to create an environment where patients, public and healthcare professionals all feel able to speak out about their concerns, without fear or favour.”
Ultimately, the HSSIB will target creating a “safe space” for participants, including patients, families and staff, to share knowledge that will not be disclosed except in limited circumstances.
It is hoped this will encourage more people to participate in investigations and speak out about safety concerns across the NHS.
Keith Conradi, chief investigator of the HSIB, added: “It’s a key step towards HSIB’s independence and as the bill progresses, we look forward to hearing the variety of views and comments on the bill’s content.”
Top Image: Aaron Chown PA Wire
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