Data collected by NHS Improvement covering a two-year period from April 2015 to March 2017 has revealed over 8,000 incidents of significant harm in maternity units in England. This included a shocking 288 deaths of both mothers and babies.
According to the BBC, in total, over a quarter of a million incidents of concern were noted by hospital staff in a voluntary NHS Improvement reporting scheme.
Causes of harm in these incidents included delays in treatment or referral, failing to monitor or screen either mother or baby, incorrect recording or measuring of data, or failure to follow procedures.
The current shortage of midwives in England has become an issue of some concern. Although numbers have increased over the last few years, according to The Royal College of Midwives, there is a national shortage of midwives of approximately 3,500, and the rate of increase is declining, due in part to midwives leaving the profession.
According to the NHS Resolution annual report, 50% of clinical negligence claims were prompted by failings in maternity services in 2016 – 2017.
Speak to a solicitor
If you have been the victim of a significant failing of care, you may wish to seek legal advice.
Contact Glynns Solicitors, specialists in medical negligence law, to discuss your situation with an experienced solicitor.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
Share Article With:
|
|
|
|
|
|
