Amicus workplace representatives will now be aware the Department of Health’s (DoH) proposals set out in 'Commissioning a patient-led NHS', 28 July 2008. (Reps Direct No 389 16 August 2005.)
The proposals to reconfigure Strategic Health Authorities (SHAs) and Primary Health Care Trusts (PCTs) in England include the option of privatisation by the back door. One PCT, East Elmbridge and Mid Surrey PCT, has already jumped the gun and is planning to set up a limited company to provided community nursing and therapy services.
Amicus is seriously concerned that the proposals include a massive reduction in management and administration of £15 million, which will mean the loss of valued NHS staff and a reduced budget for ‘overhead costs’ of £250 million, which are likely to impact on service provision. The timescale, which if followed, means plans for radical change requires agreement by SHAs no later than November 2005 with full implementation by PCTs by October 2006. Amicus believes this timescale denies the opportunity for proper consideration of the impact of the proposals to services and staff. There is no guidance in relation to “staffing and recruitment processes”, which the document says, “will be handled locally”. Staff currently providing primary care services will undoubtedly be very uncertain about their future in the NHS.
This change, coupled with Practice Based Commissioning, creates uncertainty and instability at a time when there is widespread concern about cuts to Primary Care services, in particular to community nursing, and with many PCTs struggling to manage serious budget deficits. Amicus CPHVA are currently undertaking a survey of members to establish the extent of these cuts and an interim report has been forwarded to the Secretary of State.
Despite the obvious implications to staff and the services they deliver there has been no consultation with NHS trade unions, which is contrary to the DoH’s stated commitment to partnership working. Amicus is calling on the government to reconsider these proposals that would lead to the privatisation of Primary Care services and take action to address cuts to frontline community staff
Gail Cartmail, National Officer.
If you have any question arising from this edition of Reps Direct please contact your Regional Officer.