Independent investigations of hospital complaints
Deputy O'Donoghue criticises HSE-led investigations into serious hospital complaints and calls for an independent body. The Tánaiste says complaints are often initially investigated internally, but independent bodies such as HIQA exist and the Government is examining an Ombudsman proposal to let his office look at clinical matters.
Last night we debated an important Bill on patient safety. How can we have a good hospital system if the HSE investigates itself? Why can we not have an independent body to investigate serious complaints against hospitals like University Hospital Limerick? Some 70 health professionals - the Tánaiste is also a health professional - came forward on Q-Pulse to report incidents. Some 140 incidents related to one medical practitioner, yet none of them has been investigated. When they are investigated, it is by the HSE, which has people on every board. No matter which way you go, there are HSE representatives, past and present, on it. We need an independent public body to investigate serious incidents in our hospitals.
Comment on this
When a complaint is made, it is appropriate that in the first instance there should be an internal investigation, and that is often what is done. There are, however, independent bodies. HIQA, for example, is an independent body that can carry out investigations in certain circumstances.
Comment on this
There are HSE members on it.
Comment on this
We are also, at the request of the Ombudsman, examining his proposal to allow his office to examine clinical matters, which is not currently allowed.
Comment on this
They are made up by HSE bodies.