MSPs concerned over lack of detail in government’s NHS overhaul

MSPs on Holyrood’s health committee have raised concerns about the “scant details” available on the planned overhaul of the NHS.

As part of its public sector reform plans, the Scottish Government wants to reduce the number of health boards from 14 to two.

But in a letter published today, the committee said the proposals had been made “without a clear evidence base or assessment of how much they will cost”.  

Committee convener Helen McDade said: “Given the significant and substantial implications of the proposed changes to the NHS, we would expect to have full information available on the scope, costs, engagement and evidence base, instead of the scant details we have been able to access. 

“It appears to the committee that decisions have been made by the government to substantially reform our health service before a business case was developed, before a comprehensive consultation process took place or a clear indication of the impact the reform will have on patients and staff.”

The plans to reduce the number of Scotland’s territorial health boards was outlined in First Minister John Swinney’s Programme for Government speech in September.

Appearing before the health committee last month, health secretary Angela Constance said she had come to the “very strong conclusion” that reducing the number of boards to two was the best way forward.

In its letter to Constance, the committee called for greater clarity and transparency and has urged the Scottish Government to publish the evidence it is basing its proposals on. 

Labour’s health spokesperson Jackie Baillie said: “Scotland’s NHS urgently needs reform but the Scottish Government’s plans are rushed, wholly lacking in detail, and risk making it harder for patients to access care.

“We have raised our concerns about whether two health boards will be sufficient for the country. Instead, Scottish Labour believes there should be a third health board covering the Highlands and north east.

“It is really important that Angela Constance and the Government provides much greater detail about these plans, and provides the evidence required to justify the decisions they take.”

Health secretary Angela Constance said: “We welcome the committee’s view that the need for reform of our health and social care system is recognised and accepted.

“Our plans for NHS reform are focused on improving services for people across the country, regardless of where a person lives. They will simplify how people get the care they need and remove the current geographic and bureaucratic barriers that exist between 14 health boards, which we know are currently causing unwanted variation and duplication.

“As I made clear when I gave evidence to the committee, the development of detailed proposals will be supported by a business case and will include engagement with NHS boards, staff representatives, trade unions, local government, Integration Authorities, social care partners and the public. I am also working closely with MSPs and will keep the Scottish Parliament informed as we progress the delivery of a more detailed transition and implementation timeline.”