Glasgow hospital oversight group created after infection concerns

Health Secretary Neil Gray announced an independent oversight group for the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital to boost public confidence; prosecutors are investigating seven deaths for possible links to the hospital environment.

Health Secretary Neil Gray has announced a new independent oversight group for the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital (QEUH) campus in Glasgow. The move follows a public inquiry into whether water and ventilation issues were linked to infections and patient deaths. Gray said experts advised the Scottish Hospitals Inquiry that governance for those systems is now optimal. The group will include staff, patients and whistleblowers and will be co-chaired by NHSGGC chief executive Prof Jann Gardner and Prof Sir Lewis Ritchie. Key facts: - A new independent oversight group was announced to cover facilities, leadership and public engagement at QEUH. - Officials said external experts advised that governance arrangements for water and ventilation systems are now optimal. - Scotland’s Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS) is investigating seven deaths with possible links to the hospital environment. - Police have submitted prosecution reports in some cases and COPFS is considering whether to bring corporate homicide or health and safety charges. Summary: The oversight group is intended to bolster public confidence as the public inquiry continues and as prosecutors carry out independent investigations. COPFS investigations are ongoing and it will decide whether to pursue charges; families will be kept updated. Undetermined at this time.