Politicians want eHarley Street GP contract investigation

In the midst of a GP contract controversy, there are calls from politicians for a probe into the relationship between a health board and a GP management company. This issue stems from concerns surrounding the management practices of eHarley Street, a firm that has faced criticism regarding safety, staffing, and supply issues. The majority of GP surgeries under eHarley Street in Wales have been handed back to Aneurin Bevan health board, with complaints still being raised about Pontypool Medical Centre, one of the company’s remaining surgeries in the area.

Labour ministers and politicians Lynne Neagle and Nick Thomas-Symonds are among those demanding an investigation into the matter. Patients, doctors, and even the first minister have expressed discontent with how the practices were being run by the GP management company. Last year, patients, including those with terminal illnesses, reported difficulties accessing appointments and treatments at surgeries affiliated with eHarley Street, leading to further concerns about the company’s operations in Wales.

Neagle, a Member of the Senedd for Torfaen, and Thomas-Symonds, the constituency’s MP, jointly requested an inquiry into the health board’s engagement with eHarley Street and its management of the contracts. Despite reassurances from the health board that no immediate safety concerns were identified, the politicians found the response lacking in addressing public concerns. They emphasized that their call for an investigation was aimed at ensuring accountability and transparency in the handling of the situation.

In response to the escalating controversy, eHarley Street has pointed to challenges such as underfunding, outdated funding formulas, and a stressed workforce in Wales. The company alleges that its status as an English-led provider operating in Wales has contributed to the scrutiny it faces. Meanwhile, the health board continues to work closely with eHarley Street through enhanced monitoring to ensure compliance with contracts and the delivery of primary care services. Audit Wales has initiated work to understand the health board’s management of the concerns raised, with further audit work being considered based on the initial findings

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