10/11/2010

NHS Gloucestershire and Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust have welcomed today’s decision to end the trial transfer period and support the position on beds, as presented at a meeting of the County Council’s Health, Community and Care Overview and Scrutiny Committee (HCCOSC), this morning.

The end of the trial will see 43 beds remain closed after HCCOSC was satisfied that the changes were working effectively, and that patient care had not suffered during the trial closure period. Progress has been closely monitored throughout the trial, with adjustments being made when necessary following open discussion with clinical teams in the affected areas.

Cllr Andrew Gravells, Chair of the Health Community and Care, Overview and Scrutiny Committee, said:

"The Committee owed it to the people of Gloucestershire to carry out a robust review of the changes proposed earlier this year. Following evidence from the NHS, including consultants, the concerns of the Committee have been addressed to our complete satisfaction.

“This process has provided an opportunity to build a firmer relationship with the NHS locally and we look forward to continuing dialogue in the future.”

Jan Stubbings, Chief Executive of NHS Gloucestershire, said:

“We welcome today’s decision to support the closure of these beds.

“We believe it is right to consider existing and future plans alongside advancements in medicine and the changing nature of healthcare and service delivery. We are pleased that this trial period has provided the HCCOSC with the opportunity to address concerns and understand how the changes support the continuing delivery of high quality patient care. We look forward to continuing this productive relationship.”

Dr Frank Harsent, Chief Executive of Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust said:

“Our guiding principle throughout the trial period has been high quality patient care delivered through the achievement of the best clinical outcomes and the right mix of skills.”

“We have welcomed this opportunity to work positively with local community partners, including the County’s Health, Community and Care Overview and Scrutiny Committee. We all remain committed to achieving the best health outcomes for the people of Gloucestershire.”