Prosecutors have confirmed investigations are underway into the deaths of nine patients at the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital (QEUH) in Glasgow. This follows the revelation that two additional deaths are being examined, bringing the total number of cases under scrutiny to nine.
Infections and a Public Inquiry
The investigations center on cancer patients, including children, who contracted infections linked to the hospital’s contaminated water supply and ventilation system. A six-year public inquiry recently reached its final stages, hearing evidence that serious infections in 84 child cancer patients – two of whom died – were likely caused by the contaminated water system.
Among the cases now being investigated by the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS) are those of 23-year-old Molly Cuddihy and Andrew Slorance, a former Scottish government civil servant. Previously, investigations had focused on the deaths of 10-year-old Milly Main, two other children, 73-year-old Gail Armstrong, and 65-year-old Anthony Dynes.
Allegations of Political Pressure
The renewed scrutiny comes after Scottish Labour presented evidence suggesting political pressure was applied to open the hospital campus in April 2015, shortly before a general election. According to Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar, minutes from meetings between Glasgow health board officials and the Scottish government indicate this pressure. These claims have been denied by both the current First Minister, John Swinney, and former First Minister Nicola Sturgeon.
The health board has issued a “sincere and unreserved apology” and stated it is now a “very different organisation” than it was a decade ago. However, three senior microbiologists who initially raised concerns about infection control have expressed continued “significant concerns” regarding the implementation of necessary changes by senior management.
What Happens Next?
The COPFS has pledged to keep the families of the deceased informed of their progress. It is possible that the ongoing investigations could lead to further inquiries or recommendations for systemic changes within the hospital and healthcare governance. Depending on the findings, legal proceedings could also be initiated. The outcome of these investigations may also influence future public inquiries into healthcare safety standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many deaths are currently being investigated?
Nine deaths are currently being investigated by the COPFS, including those of seven patients previously under investigation and two additional cases.
What is the alleged connection between the hospital opening and the deaths?
Scottish Labour alleges that political pressure to open the hospital in April 2015, before it was fully ready, contributed to the conditions that led to the infections and subsequent deaths.
What has the health board said in response to the allegations?
The health board has offered a “sincere and unreserved apology” and stated that it is now a “very different organisation” than the one involved in the hospital’s initial design and construction.
What role does transparency play in ensuring patient safety within healthcare systems?
