Report reveals extent of hospital crisis

Mar 22 2006 By Alison Dayani, Birmingham Mail

THE crisis at trouble-hit Good Hope Hospital has been underestimated, according to a new independent report revealed today.

Bosses have come up with a financial plan to battle up to £47.5 million in debts next year.

But an independent report, commissioned by Eastern Birmingham Patient Forum, today criticised proposals, saying savings did not take into account redundancy payments, consequences of new Government schemes and the cost of necessary modernisation.

The forum released the report ahead of a crunch public meeting tonight to discuss the crisis.

Eastern Birmingham Forum now thinks the trust plan will damage patient care across the north of the city. Mark Oley, vice-chair of the forum, said:

"This rigorous and independent report has revealed many more questions than answers. It is clear that the plan is not sustainable. We will be urging the hospital management to consider the recommendations."

But a Good Hope spokeswoman said the plan was working on a worst case scenario.

"The plan noted there would be some additional costs and didn't over-estimate any benefits we might get," she said. "We believe we have a plan that will work for the benefit of staff and the local community, but are happy to hear from people on their views."

Experts at the University of Northumbria carried out the report and said there was a "systemic failure" at the hospital when under the control of private managers Tribal Secta between 2003 and last year.

Tonight's meeting is at the Fellowship Hall, in South Parade, Sutton Coldfield, at 6pm.

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