At TMLEP, we take pride in our expertise in conducting independent clinical investigations for NHS Trusts and private hospitals. Our proven approach, honed through hundreds of investigations, ensures thorough and successful outcomes.

Here is a closer look at our methodology and how it drives success:

Step 1 - Define the Scope of the Investigation

Every independent investigation starts with a clear scope. Whether triggered by patient complaints, fatalities, or professional concerns, defining this scope is crucial for maintaining focus and preventing distractions.

Key Practices Include:

• Objective Setting and Documentation: TMLEP employs a standardised process to set out the investigation’s objectives clearly. This includes:

  1. Specifying the questions, the investigation seeks to answer.
  2. Identifying required evidence and documentation.
  3. Outlining a timeline with milestones and deadlines.

• Case-by-case Customisation: Recognising the uniqueness of each case, TMLEP tailors the investigation’s scope to address specific issues, optimising the focus based on case particulars such as surgical errors or diagnostic failures.

• Ongoing Reassessment: TMLEP remain flexible, adjusting the scope as new information emerges to ensure ongoing relevance and thoroughness.

Step 2 - Assemble an Investigation Team

Investigations often involve complex clinical scenarios that demand multidisciplinary expertise. By assembling dedicated investigation teams, TMLEP fosters an environment of collaboration and communication.

Success Factors Include:

• Selection of Experts: Team members are chosen based on their relevance to the case, ensuring that those involved have the necessary qualifications and experience.
• Independence and Impartiality: TMLEP guarantees that team members have not previously engaged with the case, preserving the integrity and objectivity of the investigation.
• Team Coordination: A lead investigator coordinates team efforts, ensuring efficient collaboration and adherence to quality standards throughout the investigation process.

This structured team approach enhances findings’ accuracy, effectiveness, and stakeholder trust.

Step 3 - Gather and Review Evidence

The next critical phase involves comprehensive evidence collection, which is essential for informed investigations.

Types of evidence gathered include:

• Medical Records: This encompasses the patient’s clinical history, diagnostic reports, and treatment plans.
• Clinical Guidelines: Reference to established protocols assists in benchmarking care quality.

A meticulous review of this evidence helps uncover inconsistencies and key facts pertinent to the investigation.

Step 4 - Listening Sessions with Key Individuals

Held with healthcare professionals, patients, and family members, listening sessions are integral to understanding various perspectives involved in a patient’s care journey.

TMLEP Ensures Success Through:

• Structured Approach: A predefined set of questions guides these sessions to cover all relevant aspects while allowing open dialogue.
• Impartial Conduct: Sessions are facilitated by independent investigators to ensure unbiased gathering of information.
• Consent-Driven Engagement: TMLEP respects participants’ autonomy, obtaining informed consent for involvement.
• Sensitivity: Understanding the emotional weight of these discussions, investigators are trained to conduct sessions with care and respect.

Listening sessions contribute to a more accurate understanding and balanced investigation by allowing voices of all relevant parties to be heard.

Step 5 - Analyse the Findings

A thorough analysis of the evidence is one of the most critical stages in the investigation process.

TMLEP focuses on several key areas during this phase:

• Objective Comparison of Clinical Decisions to Guidelines: Investigators evaluate whether clinical decisions adhered to established guidelines, ensuring that the assessment remains objective.
• Assessing Causation and Impact: It is essential to determine if any identified breaches in care had a direct detrimental impact on the patient’s condition.
• Factual and Evidence Based Assessments: Combining clinical guideline evaluations with an assessment of causation facilitates a well-grounded understanding of the incident.

Step 6 - Draft a Clear and Comprehensive Report

The effectiveness of an investigation is largely determined by the clarity of its reporting. TMLEP’s reports follow a structured format that enhances understanding and assists in decision-making.

Key Report Sections Include:

• Executive Summary: Provides a high-level overview of critical findings and recommendations for quick stakeholder understanding.
• Investigation Directive: Clearly outlines the purpose, scope, and objectives, ensuring alignment among stakeholders.
• Investigation Approach and Methodology: Details the methodologies applied, lending transparency and credibility to the findings.
• Evidence Reviewed: Establishes the foundation for conclusions drawn during the investigation, reinforcing the report’s integrity.
• Investigation Findings: Presents unbiased conclusions in an organised manner, effectively communicating the current situation.
• Clinical Review: This section incorporates insights derived from the clinical analysis and offers expert opinions regarding the clinical practices and patient pathway of care under review. It connects the findings of the investigation to potential actionable improvements in clinical practice.
• Conclusions and Recommendations: Summarises the investigation, offering specific, actionable recommendations aimed at fostering positive change and enhancing patient safety.

Enhancing Patient Safety Through Expert Investigations: Contact TMLEP Today

TMLEP’s methodical approach to independent clinical investigations; characterised by precise scoping, expert collaboration, thorough evidence analysis, and clear reporting, drives successful outcomes. Our commitment to these best practices not only resolves individual concerns but also fosters broader improvements in healthcare standards and patient safety.

For inquiries about how TMLEP can support your investigation needs, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. We look forward to assisting you in improving patient safety and raising clinical standards by providing clear, actionable insights.