GPs share NHS chief executive's concerns (From Times Series)

GPs share NHS chief executive's concerns

10:41am Friday 5th February 2010 in

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Barnet Local Medical Committee welcomes the arrival of Cameron Ward as the new chief executive of NHS Barnet and his views as reported (‘NHS faces squeeze, says new head’, Times Series, January 28).

Because of his post, Mr Ward is somewhat constrained in the picture he can paint; the financial situation is actually much worse than he describes. We support his desire to obtain the best possible value for the taxpayer.

Unfortunately, the trust has its hands tied by the Government, forcing it to award profitable contracts to private companies to provide services better performed by NHS organisations, as well as GP-led health centres where they are not needed, such as in south Barnet.

Reducing the cost of hospital treatment by having more care provided in a community setting is undoubtedly sensible, but many Barnet practices are also facing large reductions in funding which is not a recipe for success in that direction.

Perhaps Mr Ward will be able to view these issues with a fresh pair of eyes and re-address the trust’s decision to open polyclinics in unsuitable areas, at unnecessary cost to the taxpayer.

It is in the interest of every Barnet resident Mr Ward should succeed at this difficult time and Barnet GPs look forward to a co-operative relationship to that end.

Dr John Brett, chairman of Barnet Local Medical Committee