NHS England publishes 'Never Events' Policy Framework Review consultation online

NHS England has strengthened its position as one of the safest and most transparent healthcare systems in the world by publishing the 'Never Events' Policy Framework Review consultation.

The purpose of the consultation is to clarify what needs to be done, and by whom, to prevent Never Events. Part of the review will also consider financial penalties for Never Events, and how this might be included in the NHS Standard Contract for 2015/16.

The review is focusing on five key issues: the purpose, definition, list of, management, and application of learning from never events.

The reviewed draft framework will be available online at until 31 October 2014. Individuals are invited to provide their views using an online survey https://www.engage.england.nhs.uk/consultation/never-events-policy-framework-review/consultation/intro/view.

The overall aim of the review is to keep patient safety as a focus for action, and to foster a culture which aims to share learning and improve, rather than to blame and penalise.

Dr Mike Durkin, NHS England’s National Director of Patient Safety, said:

“The key aim of this review and consultation is to make the Never Events Policy Framework as usable as possible, which will lead to better sharing of learning, and greater patient safety.

“I hope that everyone with an interest in improving patient safety will use this opportunity to give NHS England their views.”