Introducing our sector-focused stakeholder forums
On 6 February we held our first sector-focused stakeholder forum, and I was delighted to welcome leaders from the Post Mortem sector.
Post mortem
Latest inspection reports February 2023
We’ve published new inspection reports from establishments in research, human application, anatomy, and post-mortem sectors.
HTA publishes quarterly closed incidents data
In quarter 3 2022/23 we closed 107 incidents as reported to the HTA. Licensed establishments need to report that an incident has taken place and provide a follow-up investigation report within two months for review.
When an incident occurs, we aim to support establishments in their review of the incident and the actions taken to help mitigate the risk of a similar incident occurring in future.
Accidental damage to a body incidents in the post-mortem sector
Damage to a body that has the potential to cause distress to the family or may lead to damage in public confidence must be reported to the HTA. Incidents in this category include damage to a body during post-mortem examination, for example during evisceration or reconstruction of a body. Near-miss incidents should be reported to the HTA.
Mortuary capacity issues - Regulatory update
Today we’ve issued a regulatory update to provide advice and guidance on managing mortuary capacity issues.
Inspection reports from the last 7 days
We’ve published 6 new inspection reports from establishments in human application, research, and post-mortem sectors.
On inspections we look at compliance with HTA standards including consent, governance and quality systems, traceability, and premises, facilities and equipment. We check whether there are any minor, major or critical shortfalls against these standards.
Read the latest reports:
Human Tissue Authority publishes an updated version of Post-mortem Examination Licensing Standards and Guidance
Today we’ve published an updated version of Post-mortem Examination Licensing Standards and Guidance, following engagement with key stakeholders across the post-mortem sector.
Annual activity data collection
All establishments licensed to carry out activities under the Human Tissue (Quality and Safety for Human Application) Regulations 2007 must submit data relating to the activities undertaken and the tissue types worked with between 1 January and 31 December on an annual basis.
Submission of the data is a condition of your HTA licence.
Guidance on Body Storage
The HTA licensing standards on governance and quality systems and premises, facilities and equipment reinforce that the dignity of the deceased is essential and maintained.
Innovation in regulation – the start of a critical conversation
Earlier this year the Minister for Innovation laid out a challenge to health regulators, the Professional Standards Authority, NICE and NHSX during an unprecedented roundtable. If the post-Brexit ambition, as outlined in the government’s Life Sciences Vision, is to provide a world-class regulatory environment that benefits patients and the public while also promoting jobs, growth, and investment, how do we collectively