Whistleblowers, and patients are some of the best whistleblowers, have been, and are being, suppressed. Stephen Dorrell was challenged on this matter in October 1996 by Mr. Chris Smith, the then Shadow Secretary of State for Health. Now they are being heard early, and action is being taken. This is well over a quarter of a million yearly and does not take into account mistakes in GP practice. Obviously, an unknown proportion of these mistakes will have resulted in serious iatrogenic damage and yet it is quite clear from the above critique of the NHS Complaints Procedure that it provides no protection for this group of damaged patients.
Drastic changes are absolutely vital.
Genuine accountability and quality control with sanctions for all health professionals including managers, are essential under a new Independent Statutory Authority. However, the personal qualities, credentials and integrity of those appointed to this Authority are important considerations if this new body is to be successful and have the full confidence of the public. At the present time, the NHS Complaints System is a confidence trick played on the trusting patient at the tax-payer's expense. Prof. Ian Kennedy, Chairman, Bristol Inquiry. David Hinchliffe, MP, Chairman, Health Service Select Committee, House of Commons, London.