Scotland’s bid to appoint its first Patient Safety Commissioner has hit another roadblock, as efforts to fill the £89,685-a-year post have failed for a second time.
The position, established following legislation passed by Members of the Scottish Parliament (MSPs) in September 2023, remains unoccupied despite two recruitment rounds.
Failed Recruitment Attempts
The initial search in April 2024 concluded without a suitable candidate being identified. A subsequent round in November did result in a preferred candidate, but the individual ultimately declined the offer.
More than 20 applicants have expressed interest in the role across the two recruitment phases. However, the challenges in appointing someone have drawn criticism from patient safety advocates, who see the delays as a missed opportunity to address pressing healthcare concerns.
A spokesperson for the Scottish Parliament confirmed that the position will be re-advertised in 2025 following a review of its terms and conditions. Importantly, this review will not include a reassessment of the salary.
Role and Its Significance
The Patient Safety Commissioner is designed to act as an independent advocate for NHS patients, amplifying their concerns and ensuring systemic issues are addressed.
The creation of the position follows a precedent set in England, where Dr. Henrietta Hughes was appointed in 2022. Her role involves tackling issues linked to medical controversies, such as the epilepsy drug sodium valproate, vaginal mesh implants, and the pregnancy test Primodos. These scandals were spotlighted by Baroness Julia Cumberlege’s review, which found that many patient complaints were dismissed as “women’s problems.”
In Scotland, the position is seen as vital for addressing unresolved patient safety concerns and ensuring accountability in the healthcare system.
Campaigners Voice Frustrations
Patient safety campaigner Charlie Bethune, whose daughter suffered health impacts from sodium valproate exposure, criticized the prolonged vacancy.
“It is incredibly frustrating that after all the work we, and other campaign groups, put in to get the Patient Safety Commissioner Bill through, the parliament has taken so long and been so unsuccessful in filling the post,” Bethune said.
He emphasized the urgency of appointing a strong, independent voice to address ongoing safety and care issues within the NHS.
Next Steps
The Scottish Parliament is now reassessing the terms and conditions of the role to better attract candidates. While the salary remains fixed, the review could explore other incentives or adjustments to make the role more appealing.
The position, which carries a fixed term of up to eight years, will be advertised again in early 2025. In the meantime, patient safety campaigners and affected families continue to call for decisive action to address their concerns.
