BABY DEATHS SPIKE PROBED
AN increased rate of baby deaths in Scotland is to be investigated.
In March this year and September 2021 there were a higher number of neonatal deaths than expected.
The Scottish Government yesterday commissioned Healthcare Improvement Scotland to lead a review.
It will cover all reported deaths across Scotland between April 1, 2021, and March 31, 2022, to find out what may have contributed to the increase.
Anything identified will feed into recommendations to improve the quality of care for mums and babies.
Once the review team is formed it is expected to take no longer than nine months to complete the work.
Public Health Minister Maree Todd said: “Every death is a tragedy for the families involved, that is why … 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.”