Commenting on the government’s response to the James’ Inquiry into convicted surgeon Ian Paterson, the chief executive of MDDUS, Chris Kenny, said: “This is a detailed and complex report into a shocking case of patient harm, and we welcome the commitment now by the government to take action on its recommendations.
“With many of these recommendations either overlapping or being interlinked, it will be more than usually important for government to make sure implementation is consistent and integrated.
“This will be important to ensure reforms are embedded successfully, and to avoid further burden on professionals and employers when the pandemic is placing so many under unique personal and organisational pressure.
“MDDUS also welcomes further clarity from government on its timeline for taking forward the recommendation in the report on the potential to reform the system of clinical negligence cover.
“We will continue to work closely with the Department for Health and Social Care on this matter and engage openly and collaboratively with officials as this work progresses next year.
“The report’s focus on patient-centred concepts including clarity of communication and the importance of apologising is very welcome, as is the commitment to use good data to improve safety and performance.”
ENDS
The Medical and Dental Defence Union of Scotland (MDDUS) protects the professional interests of more than 54,000 doctors and dentists across the United Kingdom, offering access to indemnity, support and legal advice.
For further information please contact Alison Hardie, head of public affairs and strategic communications, on 07501 421398
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