Neonatal deaths review announced

Healthcare Improvement Scotland have been commissioned by the Scottish Government to lead a review into neonatal death rates.

It follows the higher than expected deaths in both March 2022 and September 2021, as published by Public Health Scotland.

The review will cover all reported deaths across Scotland between 1 April 2021 and 31 March 2022 to find out if there is anything that may have contributed to the increase. Anything identified will feed into recommendations and actions to improve the quality of care for mother and babies.

Once the review team is formed it is expected it will take no longer than six to nine months to complete the work.

Public Health Minister Ms Todd said:

“Every death is a tragedy for the families involved, that is why earlier this year I committed to this review to find out if there is a reason for the increase.

“I appreciate how difficult this time is for anyone affected and I would encourage them to access support if they wish to do so.  There is information about organisations and help available on the National Bereavement Care Pathways Scotland as well as the Scottish Government website.”