Taxpayers are set to bear an additional $170 million cost to address significant issues at Scotland's Queen Elizabeth University Hospital (QEUH), a facility that has been at the center of a severe infections scandal.
The substantial sum is required for vital repairs to the $1 billion building, which has been plagued by problems since its opening in 2015. The repairs address faults in the building's infrastructure, including its ventilation system, particularly in areas housing immunocompromised patients. Additionally, a new bone marrow transplant unit is needed due to issues with the existing one, which has experienced leaks and mold.
The QEUH has faced scrutiny following reports of infections, some of which police are investigating in relation to the deaths of children and adults. NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHSGGC) has acknowledged that contaminated water at the hospital was likely linked to serious infections in young cancer patients, a connection they had previously denied for six years.
This latest funding requirement brings the total expenditure related to fixing the hospital to $170 million, comprising $120 million in new repair costs on top of $50 million already spent. Politicians have called for transparency from the Scottish Government and NHSGGC regarding the allocation of these additional funds. Scottish Conservative MSP Miles Briggs stated that taxpayers deserve to know exactly why this extra money is necessary and how it will be utilized.
The hospital's issues have led to significant costs, including approximately $32 million for a public inquiry into the infection outbreaks and potential links to the building's design. Past remediation efforts have already involved significant expenses, such as $15.5 million for the replacement of substandard fire doors and cladding.
An NHS Scotland West subnational group report indicated the need to prioritize "rectification works" at the QEUH and the adjoining Royal Hospital for Children, highlighting the necessity for a new adult bone marrow transplant unit. An NHSGGC spokesperson noted that while potential rectification costs have been identified, the figures remain indicative. The Scottish Government has expressed openness to considering proposals for remediation works, including the new bone marrow transplant unit.