NHS patient safety is top priority

ASSURANCES have been given that systems are in place to protect patient safety and quality of care within NHS Dumfries and Galloway. Members of the NHS board have been told that appropriate arrangements are in place to identify issues early and provide constructive challenge where required. And chair of the healthcare governance committee Marsali Caig confirmed the breadth of work underway to maintain safe, effective and person-centred care across the region. She said: “Despite sustained pressure across services, there is clear evidence that patient safety and quality remain at the heart of decision-making.” Meanwhile, the committee also recognised the significant operational pressures being experienced across acute services, including the need at times to care for patients in areas outwith emergency department beds due to demand and capacity. It was agreed to take a closer look at whether all available mitigations are in place and whether further improvements can be made to support safe and dignified care in these circumstances. Updates were also provided on patient safety within acute, diagnostic and mental health services. While delayed discharges continue to place pressure on services, work is underway to review service models and strengthen discharge arrangements in partnership with social care. Encouraging progress was also reported within neonatal services, where staffing resilience is improving and reliance on agency staff has reduced.