White paper reforms being sabotaged by managers, says NAPC

By Ian Quinn

The Government's move towards GP commissioning is being sabotaged by disenchanted NHS managers, according to a leading GP body.

The National Association of Primary Care (NAPC) said it had received ‘widespread reports' that the reforms - outlined in the NHS white paper - were being deliberately obstructed.

The organisation also accused civil servants of coming up with ‘reams of bureaucratic guidance', which it said would act as 'a deterrent for any jobbing GP'.

NAPC chair Dr Johnny Marshall said the association was urging GPs to move towards the establishment of GP commissioning arrangements ‘as soon as is possible'.

‘Despite rumours and desires to the contrary, these reforms are going to take place,' he said.

‘At present it feels as though more people object to the Government's reforms for the NHS than support them. However we, as clinicians in primary care, know where waste exists, which tests are duplicated by secondary care, which hospitals deliver good outcomes, which patients need attention most urgently and which practices are underperforming.'

‘We can bring in the expertise that will deliver results to support us and our patients in the forthcoming challenges and opportunities ahead. This is primary care's time. We must not let it slip through our fingers.'

But David Stout, director of the NHS Confederation's PCT Network, defended NHS managers. 'Based on the widespread feedback we have received from our members, PCT staff are strongly committed to overseeing the transition to GP-led commissioning.

'While some details are awaited following the government's consultation on the White Paper, surely now is the time for positive discussions about how PCTs and GPs can work together to move the transition on. Good relationships will be critical to a successful transition.'

A top line-up of expert speakers – including Sir David Nicholson, Mark Britnell and Stephen Dorrell MP - will be addressing the latest developments in GP commissioning at the NAPC Annual Conference in Birmingham in October.

To find out more and book your place today please click here.