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Concerns over claims about unexpected deaths in hospital

Picture credit: Manx Radio

MHK calls for details to be made public

A backbench MHK says a report into claims of unexplained deaths at Noble’s Hospital should be made public.

During questions in the House of Keys this week, Julie Edge asked Health Minister, Claire Christian for further details about the allegation which was made on social media.

The Minister said an investigation into the alleged incidents was ongoing.

Ms Edge says public safety is at the heart of these claims:

In response, Manx Care has given us this statement.

"Manx Care is aware of the social media post circulating and understands why the issues raised may be concerning and upsetting for patients, families, staff, and the wider community. Patient safety and staff wellbeing remain our highest priority.

"This week has been especially busy and has had a knock‑on effect on the numbers attending the Emergency Department and those requiring admission to hospital. The Ambulance Service experienced is busiest day on record on Tuesday 17 February.

"Noble’s Hospital provides a 24‑hour Emergency Department (ED) where patients are triaged and seen according to clinical priority, so that those who are most unwell are treated first. We continually review safety arrangements and staffing levels during periods of pressure and share learning across teams to support ongoing improvement.  We acknowledge that the current footprint of the ED is significantly smaller than is required for the number of attendances and we are working with the DHSC to redevelop our ED to ensure it is a modern fit for purpose facility.

If the individual who made the post is an employee of Manx Care, we would strongly encourage them to raise their safety concerns through the appropriate formal routes so their concerns can be fully understood and addressed. This includes options of speaking with their line manager, speaking with the designated whistleblowing officer, Mr Paul Edge, or a member of the Executive Team. Staff may also raise concerns through their union. Where individuals hold a professional registration, they also have a responsibility under their professional Code of Conduct to escalate safety concerns through designated formal channels.

The Leadership Team at Manx Care remains open to listening and engaging directly with staff and members of the public who wish to raise concerns.

It would not be appropriate to comment on individual cases or allegations that could risk identifying patients or staff. However, we would like to reassure the public that Manx Care has established clinical governance processes to review and act upon all reported incidents and ensure Duty of Candour is undertaken where required."

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