Substandard Care at Stafford Hospital
February 24, 2010
The findings of an inquiry into appalling standards of care at Stafford Hospital from January 2005 to March 2009 are due to be published later on today. A number of horrific incidences of substandard care took place at this NHS hospital with former patients claiming that they were left dehydrated and that they had to resort to drinking water from vases. There are also reports that patients were left to starve, left screaming in agony and also left to lie in their own faeces. A report by the independent watchdog, the Healthcare Commission found significant failings at "every level" and it is thought that these failings resulted in over 400 more people dying than would have been expected in a three year period. Campaigners have been angered that the inquiry was held in secret and there are calls for a full public inquiry to be held by the families and loved ones of people who have suffered injury and died as a result of the hospital's failings.
John Robinson was admitted to the hospital in 2006 following a cycling accident. Staff at the hospital failed to diagnose a ruptured spleen and discharged Mr Robinson. Tragically, he died and the Coroner at the inquest into Mr Robinson's death held that Mr Robinson's care had been negligent.
It is thought that too much focus was placed on saving money to the detriment of patient care. The Healthcare Commission's investigation found that in 2006 and 2007, the healthcare trust responsible for Stafford Hospital, tried to save £10 million by getting rid of more than 150 posts to include nursing posts, even though staffing levels were already low.
If you or a family member have been affected by the awful conditions at the Stafford Hospital, please feel free to contact Caroline Klage, our Head of Clinical Negligence