Press release: The Scottish NHS Confederation comments on use of the private sector in the NHS

15 Dec 2004

Scottish NHS Confederation Director, Hilary Robertson said: "The Scottish NHS Confederation supports the principle of expanding NHS capacity through the strategic use of the private sector.  As the existing pool of suitably qualified health care staff is limited, any sudden expansion of the private sector could result in a corresponding reduction in NHS staff at a time when recruitment and retention in certain disciplines is already difficult."

She continued: "However, we welcome the Minister's assurances today that any new contracts with the private sector will have strict conditions to ensure that the NHS is not disadvantaged and clinical standards are guaranteed. We also welcome his acknowledgment that the NHS must be satisfied that such contracts demonstrate value for money and better services for patients. We would emphasise how crucial this is, that the use of the private sector does not prove more costly than resourcing the same additional work within the NHS".

Ms Robertson said: "The expansion of the private sector's capacity to treat more patients must not undermine the ability of the NHS to continue operating at present levels. That would be self-defeating as activity would merely shift from the NHS to the private sector with no overall increase in the number of patients treated."
She concluded: "It is therefore makes sense to task potential private sector providers with bringing in additional, appropriately qualified staff to Scotland.  Any expansion of the use of the private sector in the NHS should be agreed with the relevant Board and take account of all the relevant clinical governance issues, audit issues and staff governance issues."

- ends -

Notes for editors

The Scottish NHS Confederation is an independent membership body representing the majority of Scotland's NHS boards and special health boards.  We are committed to improving health policy and practice.

Contact details

For further information contact: Donald Crichton on 01786 434943 or 07775582123

Back to media centre