Demand for public inquiry into C. Diff outbreak (Orkney Liberal Democrats)

Orkney Liberal Democrats <katie@njcoward.co.uk>

Demand for public inquiry into C. Diff outbreak

September 15, 2008 9:47 AM
Originally published by Scottish Liberal Democrats

Liberal Democrat Health spokesperson Ross Finnie MSP has demanded a Public Inquiry into the C. Diff outbreak in the Vale of Leven hospital.

54 patients were infected in the outbreak last year and nine patients lost their lives. The Health Secretary has stated that it is premature to call for a Public Inquiry whilst the matter is being considered by the Crown Office, but MSPs in the Scottish Parliament will today try to overrule this position.

Commenting, Mr Finnie said:

"Public confidence in hospital hygiene throughout Scotland has been badly shaken by the Vale of Leven outbreak.

"The Health Secretary must put the interests of patients first and order a Public Inquiry to identify lessons that can be learned to prevent a similar outbreak and restore public confidence."