Scottish Government announces new Superbug chief

Published on Monday 8 June 2009 11:34

SCOTLAND'S first hospital superbug inspector was unveiled today as part of a crackdown on cleanliness.

Susan Brimelow will spearhead checks on acute hospitals across Scotland in her role as the new chief inspector of the Healthcare Environment Inspectorate.

The body is part of the Scottish Government's efforts to tackle hospital infections such as MRSA and Clostridium difficile.

Health Secretary Nicola Sturgeon said: "Getting the right person at the helm was crucial, and I'm sure Susan's strategic vision and strong leadership will benefit the inspectorate immensely.

"I look forward to seeing the inspection regime get under way. I'm sure the public will also welcome the opportunity to raise any concerns with the inspectorate."

Ms Brimelow, who is currently healthcare regulation director at the Care Commission, has a career background at the NHS in Glasgow.

Every acute hospital will receive at least one planned and one random visit within the three-year inspection cycle, with extra visits as required.

The programme will be tested at two NHS boards over summer before the full scheme starts in September.

Ms Sturgeon announced in March that a chief inspector was being recruited to spearhead the inspectorate.

The Government has already put in place a number of measures to tackle hospital infections.

As part of that, the Holyrood administration has announced all new-build hospitals must have 100% single rooms to help prevent the spread of infection, and there will be no more privatisation of cleaning contracts.

The senior charge nurse role has been revamped, giving them responsibility for ensuring ward cleanliness. There is also a new staff uniform and dress code.