Shoosmiths serious injury team is deeply concerned by press reports this week, where a highly esteemed doctor shares his views on patient safety at Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundations Trust (HHFT).
The Hampshire Chronicle reports that Winchester maternity consultant and obstetrician, Martyn Pitman, was sacked by Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (HHFT) at the beginning of March.
The obstetrician claims he has been silenced by the trust since he first blew the whistle on patient and staff safety in 2019, when he said staffing at the Royal Hampshire County Hospital fell below the minimum requirement for safe care.
In the article, Mr Pitman, 57, said he lost his job when he “whistle-blew” about patient safety concerns and morale in the workforce and raised concerns about the maternal death that happened at Winchester in March 2021 and how it was handled by the trust.
Denise Stephens, medical negligence partner in Shoosmiths serious injury team’s Thames Valley office said: “We were deeply concerned to read this article today. Unfortunately, Mr Pitman raised concerns that we hear from our clients day to day, and that we discover in the process of investigating cases.
“Time and time again we hear about the issues with hierarchy in obstetrics and the staff on the ground not being listened to and being shut down.
“Sadly, Mr Pitman’s comments echo those raised in The Ockenden Report, where midwives were shut down when trying to raise concerns, which ultimately led to major failings in patient safety.”
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This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. It is recommended that specific professional advice is sought before acting on any of the information given. © Shoosmiths LLP 2024
