Decontamination threat update - NDDH Trust decides to delay decision

In response to the many postcards sent to the Trust Chief Executive and the criticisms of the scheme by health unions, clinicians and professional bodies, the North Devon Healthcare Trust has decided to delay a decision on whether to outsource sterile services to private company Decon Sciences until September.

It has become clear to the Trust that there are serious deficiencies with the plan to privatise the services, including financial considerations on top of the health, practical and environmental problems previously outlined by Devon Socialist Party, and by UNISON and professional bodies such as the Royal College of Surgeons.

Six options are now being investigated by the Trust:

1. Do nothing;
2. On-site at NDDH;
3. Collaborate with a smaller number of Trusts to create an NHS-provided service;
4. Collaborate with a smaller number of Trusts with an outsourced provider;
5. Investigate a partnership with private healthcare providers such as BUPA;
6. Create a local NHS service, provided off-site.

Devon Socialist Party would favour options 1 and 2, which appear to be the same but differently worded. The current service is very effective. The Healthcare Commission's 2007 Report on North Devon District Hospital noted that "medical devices which can be re-used were properly cleaned in well-run decontamination facilities." There is no clinical rationale for outsoucing the services. Additionally, the distance of a Taunton facility could cause supply problems. The need for Decon Sciences to turn a profit could lead to the cutting of corners, as has happened elsewhere when Sterile Supplies services have been contracted out.

Sterile Supplies needs to be LOCAL.
Sterile Supplies services need to be done by the NHS.

Please continue to send postcards, letters and emails to Trust Chief Executive Jac Kelly.