NHS Providers comments on the government's response to the Paterson inquiry

16 December 2021

Following the publication of the government's response to the Paterson inquiry, the director of policy and strategy at NHS Providers, Miriam Deakin said:

"We support the government's response to the Paterson inquiry findings and recommendations, which puts patient safety firmly at its heart.

"Following a significant programme of work since the inquiry was initially published in February 2020, we are pleased to see the government accept the majority of recommendations, and pledge to progress work in consultation with key stakeholders across the wider health and care system in those areas where recommendations could not be accepted in full. Trusts will support the outcomes stemming from this important work, and will particularly benefit from tools to ensure improved information sharing with patients and the independent sector, alongside guidance and other materials to help organisations better respond to patient concerns.

"It is critical that the work from this inquiry addresses the underlying factors which contributed to a broader environment in which Ian Paterson was able to commit horrific crimes. As such, trusts will be eager to continue working with the Department of Health and Social Care, patient representatives and partners in the independent sector, to ensure the actions identified by this inquiry are implemented."