NHS Scotland CLO Mediation Pilot Project

 

In conjunction with the Scottish Executive, the NHS in Scotland Central Legal Office has launched a 3 year project to assess the use of mediation as a mechanism for resolving clinical negligence disputes. Where experience and research shows that people in such cases often need an explanation, reassurance, and acknowledgement of pain and anger, in addition to (or even instead of) compensation, the availability of a private process in which these can be addressed quickly is welcome. This also offers medical professionals a means to have difficult issues dealt with expeditiously and non-confrontationally.

To read John Sturrock’s article on the value of mediation in resolving conflict within the NHS, (Holyrood Magazine's Health Supplement, December 2004) click here and on using negotiation to find creative solutions to disputes (Legal and Medical, December 2004), click here.