The harrowing crimes committed by Lucy Letby have deeply shaken our community in Solihull and reverberated across the country. They have starkly highlighted the pressing need for rigorous scrutiny and unwavering accountability within the NHS.
As the Member of Parliament for Solihull, I’ve listened to several constituents and healthcare professionals across the Borough and have submitted a series of questions to the Health Secretary on their behalf, seeking clarity and committing to preventing such incidents in the future.
- What protocols are in place to monitor and evaluate neonatal mortality rates and suspicious occurrences in NHS hospitals?
- How does the NHS respond swiftly and appropriately to staff concerns regarding potential harm to patients?
- What training does the NHS offer nursing staff on accountability and reporting suspicious activities?
- Will the Department consider implementing mandatory reporting mechanisms for suspected criminal or negligent behaviour?
- How is the NHS ensuring whistleblower protection when concerns are raised?
- Are there plans for continuous surveillance in critical care units to ensure patient safety?
- Is the Department planning a nationwide review of neonatal mortality rates and unexplained deaths?
- How will the NHS improve internal investigation processes concerning staff allegations?
- What support is being offered to the families affected by the Letby case?
- How does the Department plan to restore public trust in neonatal care safety?
- Will mandatory psychological assessments be introduced for medical staff in high-stress NHS departments?
- Are mandatory external reviews in place within the NHS for raised patient safety concerns?
- What improvements are being made to NHS hiring and vetting procedures for nursing staff?
- Is the Department considering mandatory continuous professional development, including ethics training, for all healthcare staff?
- How will communication be improved between different NHS departments concerning staff concerns?
- What measures ensure that medical staff transitioning to administrative roles due to concerns are monitored?
- How will potential communication gaps between hospital management and frontline staff be addressed?
- What's the protocol for involving police in hospital investigations related to patient harm?
- How will access to medicines and equipment in neonatal wards be reviewed?
- Are there plans to introduce stringent checks on staff transitioning between hospitals?
- What assessment he has made of the adequacy of unannounced hospital inspections by the Care Quality Commission
Accountability is not just a principle but a solemn promise. It is the foundation of our public institutions, especially the revered NHS. Each one of us places an immense amount of trust in the NHS, believing in its care and commitment. Upholding rigorous standards, maintaining vigilant oversight, and ensuring transparency in operations is non-negotiable.
I eagerly await a comprehensive response from the Health Secretary on these matters. It is vital that Solihull, and the nation at large, receive clear answers. Our collective aim must be to fortify public trust and ensure the safety and care of every individual relying on the NHS.
