Bosses of QEUH ‘still failing whistleblowers’ after infection scandal

Bosses at the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital (QEUH) in Glasgow are still failing to address concerns raised by whistleblowers following an infection scandal, according to investigators. The Independent National Whistleblowing Officer (INWO) uncovered that staff at NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde felt apprehensive about reporting safety risks and believed they would face repercussions for speaking up. The watchdog’s report highlighted strained relationships between teams, hindering the sharing of critical information related to patient safety risks.

The investigation was triggered by a whistleblower’s complaint regarding the handling of concerns at the QEUH, where numerous patients, particularly children with cancer, contracted infections from rare bacteria and fungi. The hospital is under scrutiny after facing allegations in a corporate homicide probe linked to the deaths of four patients. The INWO report emphasised a significant lack of trust and communication barriers between QEUH teams, impacting the ability to address safety issues effectively.

Dr. Christine Peters, an infection expert, was among those who voiced concerns about patient safety at the QEUH. A survey conducted by the INWO revealed that nearly half of the staff lacked confidence that the health board would address reported issues, with concerns about potential adverse consequences for whistleblowing. The ongoing scandal dates back to the hospital’s opening in 2015, with employees expressing worries about compromised patient safety.

In response to the report, an NHSGGC spokeswoman acknowledged efforts to promote a culture of speaking up within the organisation. While progress has been made in staff awareness of whistleblowing procedures, the health board continues to strive for improved confidence among employees to report concerns without fear of reprisal. NHSGGC pledged to review the findings and implement necessary actions to address the issues identified.

The Queen Elizabeth University Hospital infection scandal underscores the critical importance of fostering a transparent and supportive environment for whistleblowers in healthcare settings. Effective communication and trust among healthcare teams are vital for ensuring prompt responses to patient safety risks. Organisations must prioritise creating cultures that encourage open dialogue and proactive reporting of concerns to uphold the highest standards of patient care.