Council Supports Calls for Public Inquiry into Company Running GP Surgeries in Wales
A recent council meeting in Blaenau Gwent has seen councillors from various political backgrounds rallying behind calls for a public inquiry into a management firm that previously owned several GP surgeries in Wales. The motion, consisting of four key points including the demand for an investigation, was unanimously supported by councillors on Thursday.
The Senedd had previously raised concerns about the management of surgeries by eHarley Street, the firm in question which owned nine practices across Wales. Reports indicated a decline in service quality, with patients struggling to secure appointments due to severely low staffing levels. In addition, there were allegations from doctors and locum GPs claiming substantial unpaid wages.
During the council meeting, Labour councillor Helen Cunningham described the situation as a “scandal of epic proportions” and emphasised the need for an independent inquiry. She also called for an urgent review of the GP contract system in Wales. Councillor John C Morgan highlighted the shock expressed by members of the Aneurin Bevan University Health Board regarding the matter, citing it as a stark reminder of the consequences of private companies managing healthcare services.
Labour councillor Tommy Smith expressed hope that the motion would send a clear message that there is no place for companies like eHarley Street in Wales. Meanwhile, opposition independent group leader Councillor Wayne Hodgins highlighted the plight of Amy McCrystal, a practice manager who raised concerns about eHarley Street to the health board only to face dismissal and personal repercussions.
The unanimous vote on the motion signified the council’s assertion that unanswered questions regarding eHarley Street’s contracts and management deserve scrutiny through an independent inquiry. The motion further urged Health Minister Jeremy Miles to conduct a prompt review of GP contract allocation in Wales.
In response to the allegations and increasing pressure, eHarley Street returned five of the nine surgeries they oversaw to the Aneurin Bevan University Health Board. The company’s representatives deny the claims and assert their commitment to addressing the challenges faced by the remaining practices. This move followed mounting political, financial, and operational difficulties faced by the company.
With registered officers Jalil Ahmed and Jonathan Allinson at the helm, eHarley Street remains under scrutiny. The company’s communication with the BBC indicated financial strain within general practice operations, leading to delays in locum payments. Understandably, this situation has raised concerns among staff, patients, and the local community.
Looking ahead, the Aneurin Bevan University Health Board affirmed its focus on ensuring sustainable and quality primary care services for patients. As the council’s motion gains traction, attention now turns to the potential outcomes of a public inquiry and the implications for the future of healthcare management in Wales.
As this story continues to unfold, it underscores the critical importance of transparent and accountable governance in the delivery of healthcare services. The unity displayed by councillors in supporting this motion reflects a commitment to safeguarding the well-being of communities and upholding the principles of public health service delivery.