York author republishes NHS book after Thirlwall Inquiry

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 23 Oct, 06:08 · Archive

Michael Wash has updated his 2003 book on NHS organisational change following findings from the Thirlwall Inquiry.

Michael Wash, a York author who spent his career helping NHS organisations change, has republished his 2003 book 'Beyond Reorganisation: The Practice and Reality of Organisation Development in the NHS'. The updated version is now freely available for digital download. Mr Wash says his recent experiences as a patient, combined with the Thirlwall Inquiry's findings, highlighted the continuing relevance of his past concerns about NHS culture.

In 2003, Mr Wash questioned whether structural changes in the NHS were sufficient to foster an effective culture of care. He argues that 'culture changes when leadership behaviour changes' and that leadership transformation is crucial for altering organisational culture. He also emphasises the importance of addressing what he calls the 'Shadow Side'—the informal aspects of organisational life.

The Thirlwall Inquiry reported dysfunctional management, a gap between hospital leadership and clinicians, and safeguarding failures, echoing Mr Wash's past observations. His work with Alder Hey Children's Hospital won the national Organisational Learning category and the overall Excellence in Human Resource Management Award in 2006, exemplifying his belief that meaningful change occurs through leadership and learning rather than structural reorganisation. Mr Wash hopes the book will contribute to making the NHS's culture more open and safe.

How it is being reported

• York author republishes book on NHS failings following Thirlwall InquiryMichael Wash, who spent much of his career helping NHS organisations change, has updated his 2003 book following the Thirlwall Inquiry findings.York Press · 23 Oct, 05:00
• York author republishes book on NHS failings following Thirlwall InquiryMichael Wash, who spent much of his career helping NHS organisations change, has updated his 2003 book following the Thirlwall Inquiry findings.Gazette & Herald (Malton) · 23 Oct, 05:00

In this story: Michael Wash · York · NHS · Thirlwall Inquiry · Alder Hey Children's Hospital

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