View from the House: Introduction of new GP practice is a sorry saga indeed

Feb 18 2009 David Wilshire MP For Spelthorne, Surrey Herald

The arrogance and disinterest of Surrey Primary Care Trust beggars belief. Not only has it totally ignored the views of patients but it also couldn't be bothered to tell us what it has decided.

My anger is directed at the way we have had a new GP practice dumped on us, despite the clear opposition of local people and our existing doctors.

Believe it or not, it awarded a contract to a GP-led commercial company on December 31.

When I asked for details in early January I was told the decision was secret.

Six weeks later I heard third hand what had happened.

As I write, I am still awaiting the press release I was promised three weeks ago.

Early last year the PCT launched a 'consultation' exercise. It took more than three months to answer some questions I asked.

Then it held a public meeting. It started with the PCT telling us we couldn't discuss whether there should be a new GP practice or whether it should be located at Ashford Hospital.

Once I had gathered up as much local opinion as I could the PCT took almost two months to agree to meet me.

Even then, the chief executive couldn't be bothered to attend.

It didn't matter much because the meeting began with me being told it was too late to take my constituents' views into account.

As a result of this sorry saga, come June we will have a new GP practice.

Since (according to the chairman of the PCT) Spelthorne is not short of doctors, it will open with no patients (unless, of course, it sets out to undermine existing practices).

What a way to run our local NHS.