Recommendation R33: Statistical process control charts
From Muckamore Abbey Hospital Inquiry Report, published 18 June 2026.
Recommendation
To ensure meaningful interpretation of these trends, all HSCTs should adopt statistical process control (SPC) charts, as developed by Walter Shewhart in 1939. SPC charts use calculated upper and lower control limits to distinguish between normal variation in a stable process and significant long-term shifts in performance. These charts provide a clear visual flag as to when further investigation is warranted, promoting a data-driven approach to service improvement.
Government response
No government response to this recommendation is on the record yet.
Delivery
No statement on delivery from Health and Social Care Northern Ireland or Northern Ireland Executive has been found in the sources searched (last checked 22 June 2026). This is separate from the response above.