An independent review into the management culture of NHS Lothian has highlighted 'inappropriate management culture' at the board
The report, requested by the Health Secretary Nicola Sturgeon, said the culture originated from the top level. NHS Lothian will now take forward the report's recommendations, focusing on improving the board's values, culture, and organisational development.
The independent report was ordered after concerns about senior management were raised during an investigation into the manipulation of waiting times.
Last month, chief executive Professor James Barbour retired after more than a decade in the job.
In April the board was criticised by Ms Sturgeon for manipulating waiting times.
It had doctored some of its figures to avoid breaching official targets. Two members of staff were suspended after it emerged last October that patients were being referred to Northumberland for treatment.
When they declined, they were not included on a list of patients waiting more than the target of 18 weeks for treatment.
Ms Sturgeon said: "I want to be clear that there is no place in any part of the NHS for a management style or culture of this type and it will not be tolerated.
"However, the report also makes clear that this should not be seen as a general condemnation of management within NHS Lothian. Excellent relationships exist within teams and there are many exceptionally good leaders and managers who have been unaffected by the issues identified.
"It will be important now for the Board to embrace a new strategic direction and work to embed an inclusive, supportive, open and transparent culture throughout the organisation.
"I fully support the new interim chief eTim Davison in his and the board's wider work to rebuild the trust and confidence in NHS Lothian."
Ms Sturgeon has now asked Dr Charles Winstanley, the chairman of NHS Lothian, to produce a single integrated action plan which will bring together the improvements required in waiting time information reporting, governance and culture.
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