What is a significant adverse event review in Scotland?

A significant adverse event review is conducted when an incident occurs that could have caused, or did cause, harm to a patient, staff member, or visitor.

How has SNP's handling of NHS affected patient care?

Scottish Labour claims the SNP's mishandling has led to a 55% rise in serious adverse patient care incidents and increased pressure on hospitals.

What are the main concerns raised about Scotland's NHS?

Key concerns include a rise in adverse patient events, prolonged A&E waiting times, staffing shortages, and delayed discharges impacting care quality.

Home / Health / SNP Accused Over 55% Jump in NHS Adverse Events

SNP Accused Over 55% Jump in NHS Adverse Events

1 Dec

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Summary

Serious patient care incidents in Scotland rose 55% in four years.
Over 3,600 adverse event reviews were conducted between 2020 and 2024.
Gynaecology, neonatal, and maternity care saw significant increases in reviews.

SNP Accused Over 55% Jump in NHS Adverse Events

Figures reveal a concerning 55% rise in serious adverse patient care incidents across Scotland's health boards and ambulance service over the past four years, from 2020 to 2024. Scottish Labour obtained data showing more than 3,600 significant adverse event reviews were carried out, prompting accusations of "mishandling" the NHS by the ruling SNP. Specific areas like gynaecology, neonatal care, and maternity services experienced notable increases in these reviews, signaling growing pressures.

Labour's deputy leader, Jackie Baillie, highlighted the connection between delayed discharges and hospital overcrowding, stating that thousands of patients spend over 12 hours in A&E weekly. She also pointed to stretched frontline teams and a lack of staff recruitment and retention as critical issues. Baillie urged the SNP government to investigate this trend, publish review numbers for accountability, and ensure patients receive the highest standard of care.