Written Question · S3W-32799 · Session 3
Further to the Review of Neonatal Services in Scotland, whether it considers that there is a shortage of doctors properly trained in neonat…
The question
To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the Review of Neonatal Services in Scotland, whether it considers that there is a shortage of doctors properly trained in neonatal services and, if so, what steps it is taking to address this.
The answer
Since 30 September 2008, the number of paediatric consultants has increased from 218 to 288 an increase of 70 (whole-time equivalent) 32.5%. Neonatology is a sub specialty of paediatrics and doctors working in neonatal services are trained to the standard required by the General Medical Council.
Neonatal services are provided by a multi professional Clinical Team which includes Consultants and Clinical Nurse Specialists who provide a treatment pathway to meet the needs of the patient.
However, the current policy of Reshaping the Medical Workforce will address the issues of staffing affecting neonatal services. The Reshaping Medical Workforce Project is our strategic policy objective of moving to a service predominantly delivered by trained doctors and reducing the reliance on doctors in training for front-line service delivery. This will ensure better health and higher quality healthcare services for patients resulting in improved patient outcomes and clinical safety.
We have also written to NHS board chief executives to seek assurances that the levels of neonatal staffing and skill mix are sufficient to ensure a high-quality neonatal service to meet their local need.
Neonatal services are provided by a multi professional Clinical Team which includes Consultants and Clinical Nurse Specialists who provide a treatment pathway to meet the needs of the patient.
However, the current policy of Reshaping the Medical Workforce will address the issues of staffing affecting neonatal services. The Reshaping Medical Workforce Project is our strategic policy objective of moving to a service predominantly delivered by trained doctors and reducing the reliance on doctors in training for front-line service delivery. This will ensure better health and higher quality healthcare services for patients resulting in improved patient outcomes and clinical safety.
We have also written to NHS board chief executives to seek assurances that the levels of neonatal staffing and skill mix are sufficient to ensure a high-quality neonatal service to meet their local need.
In the Official Report
No contribution in the Official Report cites S3W-32799 by reference.