14.02.13
Breaking the silence
The NHS has been charged with fostering a “culture of fear” by a whistleblower who was gagged following concerns over patient safety.
Now the trust in question is being investigated for similar shortcomings, and professionals across the sector must consider how future whistle blowing can be encouraged, rather than silenced.
Acknowledging poor and even dangerous levels of care is essential for the NHS to deliver a quality service at reduced costs.
Walker’s example suggests that pressure to achieve targets can miss the true purpose of the NHS: to protect, maintain and restore the actual health of patients.
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