Health
Bereaved parents meet as Sussex maternity review opens
The Guardian reports that an independent inquiry led by Donna Ockenden opened to examine local NHS care.
The short version
- An independent review into Sussex maternity and neonatal services opened with a Brighton meeting led by Donna Ockenden.[The Guardian]
- The inquiry is expected to evaluate over 1,000 cases dating back to 2018 following months of campaigning by bereaved parents.[The Guardian]
- A media investigation earlier reported that at least 55 baby deaths across the hospital trust might have been avoidable.[The Guardian]
- University Hospitals Sussex stated it welcomes the investigation and is committed to supporting the process.[The Guardian]
Key facts
- Donna Ockenden opened an independent review into Sussex maternity and neonatal care with a public meeting in Brighton.[The Guardian]
- The inquiry is projected to examine more than 1,000 maternity and neonatal cases occurring since 2018.[The Guardian]
- A joint media investigation reported in February that at least 55 baby deaths might have been avoidable with improved care.[The Guardian]
- University Hospitals Sussex chief executive Dr. Andy Heeps affirmed the trust welcomes the review and will cooperate fully.[The Guardian]
What remains uncertain
- The exact total of affected patients and avoidable deaths remains unconfirmed pending the full findings of the inquiry.[The Guardian]
Sources
Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.