Home / Health / SNP Accused Over 55% Jump in NHS Adverse Events
SNP Accused Over 55% Jump in NHS Adverse Events
1 Dec
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.
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.
In response, Health Secretary Neil Gray affirmed the Scottish Government's commitment to patient safety and transparency, emphasizing the ongoing work of Scotland's patient safety programme. He stated that learning from adverse event reviews is crucial for continuous improvement and that measures are being taken to support the health service and its dedicated staff through upcoming challenges. The Scottish Ambulance Service has been approached for comment.
