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28 September 2020 | Comment | Article by Mari Rosser

Maternity services at Cwm Taf improving, but more work needed to manage complaints and concerns


The Independent Maternity Services Oversight Panel has today published its latest progress report on Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board.

The report concludes that:

“Six months on, whilst COVID-19 has undoubtedly had consequences, the Panel believes that the Health Board has done remarkably well in difficult and challenging circumstances to maintain focus and momentum and in doing so has made further incremental progress in delivering against its maternity improvement plans.”

However, despite further progress, the report emphasises that there is still “a significant amount of work to be done to fully deliver against the Royal Colleges’ recommendations and the pursuit of exemplar status remains a longer-term ambition.”

Responding to today’s report, Mari Rosser, Head of Medical Negligence at Hugh James, who acts for some of the families involved said:

“I welcome the fact that, in the interests of patient safety, 53 of the 70 actions recommended have been delivered. Given the pressures of the current COVID-19 crisis, it is even more reassuring that such progress has been made.

“However, the main focus now must be improving the management of complaints and concerns. Having an effective process to manage complaints and concerns is the key to acting quickly when treatment is not being delivered as it should– as has been highlighted in the public health inquiries, such as Mid Staffordshire and Morecambe Bay.”

Stephen Webber has been featured in a BBC article: “Cwm Taf maternity: Calls for police investigation

Have you or a family member been affected by the Cwm Taf scandal?

Hugh James has produced a helpful guide with information on what to do if you or a family member has been affected by this. Please follow the link to download your free information guide.

It is important that families who have questions or concerns over the care provided are given the chance to have them explored. If you have any concern Hugh James has a launched a free helpline on 0800 048 1849 where you can voice your concerns with a legal professional.

Author bio

Mari Rosser

Head of Divisional Operations

Recognised as a leader in the field of medical negligence and known for her litigation and client care skills, Mari has been the head of the medical negligence team since 2017.

Mari has a particular specialism in both child and adult brain injury cases, and fatal accident claims.

Mari and the team act as the sole advisor for the Community Health Councils in Wales, and due to their high reputation nationally, receive numerous referrals from other professionals, including solicitors and doctors.

Disclaimer: The information on the Hugh James website is for general information only and reflects the position at the date of publication. It does not constitute legal advice and should not be treated as such. If you would like to ensure the commentary reflects current legislation, case law or best practice, please contact the blog author.

 

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