How market reforms could affect you

If you’re a GP:

Policy of one Darzi centre per PCT, irrespective of local patient need, is threatening local GP practices
Lack of integration of ISTCs with local NHS services is leaving some patients potentially at risk and fragmenting their care
Short term contracts for private providers may result in a high turnover of doctors at walk-in centres, Darzi centres and polyclinics. This could threaten long term continuity of care, particularly of patients with complex health needs
Long term chronic care may be of a lesser priority for private companies as it is considered less profitable.

If you’re a Consultant/Speciality Doctor

Lack of integration of ISTCs with local NHS services are leaving some patients potentially at risk and fragmenting their care
Polyclinics or GP-led health centres creating a destabilising effect as as services and income are transferred away from the hospital setting
Overall value-for-money of providers from the commercial sector, ISTCs and PFI projects.

If you’re a junior doctor or student:

Education and training is under threat as there is no financial incentive for commercial bodies to train doctors in the way the NHS does
Fewer opportunities for medical students to see and/or experience certain operations or clinical procedures if they are transferred away from the NHS to private companies
Future burdens placed upon the NHS through PFI may affect the available funding in the future.

For more background on NHS market reforms, see: