PATIENT CHOICE IGNORED IN FAVOUR OF PRIVATE HOSPITALS

11.56.37am UTC (GMT +0000) Wed 23rd Aug 2006

Hazel Grove MP, Andrew Stunell is investigating claims that Stockport Primary Care Trust is favouring private hospitals in the 'patient choice' scheme. 'Patient choice' is meant to ensure that people are treated at their preferred hospital but Mr Stunell says there is evidence that patients are being steered to private facilities even when NHS hospitals have been cited as the first choice for treatment.

Mr Stunell said

"I have received complaints that Stockport PCT has farmed patients out to BUPA private hospitals for surgery when their preference for treatment had been Stepping Hill NHS hospital."

"This decision would have been understandable if there had been a shortage in the capacity at Stepping Hill NHS facilities, but this does not seem to have been case and it appears that the reason for doing this may simply be because of the advantage in costs."

"It means patients who want NHS treatment are actually being sent to a private hospital at state expense. It is insidious, and I am seeking an explanation from the Primary Care Trust."