We are encouraged to note that Wes Streeting is taking serious steps to stop NHS managers from prosecuting whistleblowing doctors just because they raised patient safety concerns (NHS bosses who silence whistleblowers could be sacked under government plans , November 24). The unwarranted and widespread harm to some doctors who have spoken out on safety issues over the past two decades has had serious consequences, despite laws designed to protect them. Trusts should be banned from dismissing doctors who raise patient safety concerns and be required to investigate their concerns, which are currently often covered up.
The employment tribunal system, which some doctors hopelessly engage in to save their careers and livelihoods, is heavily biased against them. If dismissals were banned, most of the enormous legal costs borne by taxpayers would be avoided. In any case, why is the judiciary, which has little or no understanding of patient safety issues, involved if no laws have been broken? The entire law in this area needs to be reexamined. Mr Streeting has the important task of reviewing the current egregious arrangements. Why isn’t formal data collected on most of these important issues?
Dr. David E Ward Retired Cardiologist, St George’s Hospital, London
Professor Jane Somerville Emeritus Professor of Cardiology, Imperial College London