UC24 keeps out-of-hours GP care contract - but loses Sefton

Nov 27 2007 EXCLUSIVE by Liza Williams

THE company which runs Liverpool’s GP out-of-hours service will continue to do so for three more years, despite allegations by some patients of misdiagnosis.

The board of Liverpool and Knowsley PCTs approved the granting of a new contact to Wavertree-based UC24 (Urgent Care 24), which has provided the service for the last three years.

Over the last two years the Daily Post has reported on several complaints about UC24, due to misdiagnosis and controversy around patient confidentiality.

But both PCTs say the company beat competition hands down to win the contact and the vast majority of patients are happy with the service.

However, Sefton PCT last night favoured a different provider and chose Integrated Care Sefton (ICS) to deliver its out of hours care.

All PCTs say they have gone through a “robust procurement process” since April, based primarily on clinical opinion provided by experts, including local doctors.

Leone Beaver, Director of Strategy for Liverpool PCT said: “Patient reaction shows that UC24 is within the top 25% of providers in the country and the vast majority are pleased with the service.

“But you do not have to take our word for it, there were eight contenders in all and after the extensive process which involved 17 experts who put clinical excellence first, they came out way in front.

“An extra million pounds is being invested and this will mean more doctors will be involved in clinical assessment. It will be an improved service.”

The tender includes the condition that UC24 must comply with Carson Standards- the national benchmark for out of hours services, which PCT officials say are rigorous.

Chris Mimnagh, Medical Director at Knowsley PCT said: “You have got to remember that UC24 is contacted 75,000 every year and the amount of complaints is tiny.

“Also, this service has to work in partnership with other NHS care in the area, such as walk in centres and pharmacies.

“A campaign is being launched over the next few weeks to help inform people about how to access services in the best way.

“The GPs involved are local too which is very important- in other parts of the country this sometimes is not the case.”

Dr Rob Barnett, secretary of the Local Medical Committee and a Liverpool GP who was involved in the selection process added: “An important factor in the decision to award the new contact to UC24 was their commitment to delivering a locally-based service and UC24 is largely staffed by the same local GPs who provide services during normal hours.”