Case assessment and review

All patient, hospital and surgeon identifiers on the completed case form are removed before being sent to a first-line assessor for review. The independent assessor is selected from the same surgical specialty as the treating consultant surgeon.

First-line assessment

The first-line assessor reviews the reported death using the information provided by the surgeon and makes a decision on whether the death has any areas or concern to address. The surgeon receives a confidential feedback letter from CHASM on the outcome of the peer review.

Second-line assessment

For cases where potential deficiencies of care have been identified by the peer reviewer, a further review is requested. This comprises a full medical case note review and a detailed report on the assessor’s opinion of the case, a copy of which the surgeon receives.

CHASM office

Surgeons are encouraged to ensure that their contact details are correct, including preferred email and mobile telephone, to facilitate contact by the CHASM Office.

Similarly, if surgeons experience any difficulties accessing the reporting portal, they can call (02 9269 5530) or email (CEC-CHASM@health.nsw.gov.au) for assistance.