§ David WrightTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what criteria he applies when deciding whether NHS hospital trust mergers may proceed. [67187]
§ Mr. HuttonProposals to merge National Health Service trusts are given careful consideration at all stages to ensure the best interests of patients. Among the criteria considered by my right Hon. Friend, the Secretary of State before agreeing that trust mergers may proceed are:
- Assurance that patients' interests are fully safeguarded;
- Assurance that clinical quality will be maintained, or improved, uniformly across the whole area;
- Evidence derived from the health impact assessment;
- Outcome of local public consultation;
- Evidence of support for the merger from within the NHS;
- Any specific service issues;
- Implications for staff;
- Financial considerations.