Acevo and the NHS Partners Network have successfully lobbied for an inquiry into a Primary Care Trust’s decision to only accept tenders for running its community services from NHS organisations. 

The Cooperation and Competition Panel (CCP), which monitors choice, co-operation and competition in the NHS, has agreed to start an investigation into the matter following two strongly-worded letters from Acevo and the NHS Partners Network, a membership organisation representing independent healthcare providers of patient services to NHS.

Stephen Bubb, chief executive of Acevo, told the CCP that Great Yarmouth and Waveney Primary Care Trust’s stance could have “system-wide implications” for Acevo members and constituted anti-competitive conduct. 

Initially the PCT had invited tenders for community services from all providers, but it reversed its decision last November, informing interested parties that it would now only accept bids from NHS organisations.

Bubb (pictured) urged: “It is clear to me that there is much scope for agents across the NHS to misinterpret the secretary of state’s statement that ‘the NHS is our preferred provider', and that it would be beneficial for the CCP to clarify that this statement should not be understood by commissioners to mean that they should act in an anti-competitive way... or that favours the public sector over any other."

Dr Sushil Jathanna, chief executive of NHS Great Yarmouth and Waveney, said he was upset with Acevo:

“We are disappointed that Acevo is taking this matter to the NHS Cooperation and Competition Panel. Our priority has always been to make sure that the services we commission provide the best possible care for our patients, whilst at the same time complying with national policy and guidance.

"We are inviting tenders from fellow NHS organisations, as well as welcoming innovative partnerships with the voluntary and independent sectors. This will encourage competition to help drive up quality and innovation within the NHS and ensure we get value for money.

Phase one of the CCP’s investigation will be completed early March. Phase two, if required, will be completed by the end of June.

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Acevo wins bid for investigation into NHS anti-competitiveness

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Directory: Association of Chief Executives of Voluntary Organisations (ACEVO)
Who's Who: Stephen Bubb