Round n in the transparency revolution: Andrew Lansley has welcomed the publication of the latest Dr Foster hospital list, detailing post-operative failures in NHS care. The Observer reports:
1) Almost 10,000 patients suffered an accidental puncture or laceration.
2) More than 2,000 had post-operative intestinal bleeding.
3) More than 13,000 mothers suffered an obstetric tear while giving birth.
4) Some 30,500 patients developed a blood clot.
5) 1,300 patients contracted blood poisoning after surgery.
Despite record investment and targets for standards, the NHS still suffers setbacks in the mundane that have severe consequences – according to the report, several hospitals have ‘dangerously high death rates’.
A defender of the NHS’ fundamental structure, Lansley believes these figures and the Staffordshire scandal are met with gasped shock because the NHS hides the information, cover-up mistakes and insulate incompetence. He, therefore, is convinced that transparency will improve standards.
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