MDDUS backs calls for the immediate publication of an expert report on clinical negligence reform

MDDUS backs calls for the immediate publication of an expert report on clinical negligence reform

The doctors’ organisation MDDUS has backed a call from the Shadow Health Secretary for the government to publish an expert report on clinical negligence reform.

Stuart Andrew MP wrote to Wes Streeting following the Health Secretary’s decision to delay publication of advice by the leading KC, David Lock.

Mr Andrew said it was “difficult to understand” why the Government was delaying a report which “would have allowed Parliament, clinicians and the wider public to engage properly with the evidence”.

He went on: “At a time when the cost of clinical negligence is placing an ever-greater strain on NHS resources, this feels like a missed opportunity.”

Chris Kenny, the Chief Executive of MDDUS, said: “Stuart Andrew hits the nail on the head here. The costs of clinical negligence run into billions of pounds every year, which is funding that could be used to improving care across the NHS.

“The decision to commission work from David Lock KC, who is eminent in his field, only to shield it from the gaze of those of us who only wish to see the current clinical negligence regime improved does seem a little contrary.

“Like many organisations who support reform, we want to see that happen on the basis of sound evidence and detailed discussion.

“It is a matter of regret to us that Mr Streeting has acted to stop this before it could start.

“In common with Mr Andrew and his colleagues, we urge the Health Secretary to rethink his decision and to publish the review by David Lock KC as a matter of urgency.”

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