Patient Safety Commissioner for Scotland

The Patient Safety Commissioner for Scotland is a public office to provide scrutiny of care that is independent of both government and the health service.

The commissioner will "advocate for systemic improvement in the safety of health care, including forensic medical examinations, in Scotland and promote the importance of the views of patients and other members of the public in relation to the safety of health care".

They have a remit that covers all health care providers operating in Scotland including the NHS, NHS contracted and independent healthcare providers.

The commissioner will be responsible formal investigations being conducted where there are concerns and safety issues are possible, making use of patients and members of the public. The commissioner has been given the authority to require people to provide information.

History
An independent review by Baroness Cumberlege into harm sustained by patients reported in July 2020, with recommendations directed towards the healthcare system in England. In September 2020, the programme of government in Scotland set out a commitment to creating the role of a national advocate for patients. On 27 September 2023 the Members of the Scottish Parliament voted unanimously to pass the bill.

The successful candidate will be appointed by His Majesty on the nomination of the Scottish Parliament. The annual cost to staff and run this office is anticipated to be around £645,000.