Issue - meetings

To approve scope and terms of reference for the review.

A number of initial observations were made by the Panel:

·        There was concern at the number of consultations being undertaken locally and the impact that this may have on local health services and their patients.  In addition to the Whittington Foundation Trust application, it was reported that consultations were also being undertaken by Haringey PCT (Primary Care Strategy) and Barnet, Enfield and Haringey (Clinical Strategy).  Impending consultations were also noted to include the London NHS Strategy (Framework for Action) and further Foundation Trust status applications from Barnet, Enfield & Haringey Mental Health Trust and North Middlesex Hospital.

·        The Panel noted that equalities issues were very important in the Whittington Hospital’s application for Foundation Trust (FT) status, especially how this may impact on other local health services and the people that use them.

·        The Panel were keen to understand what impact the review of London NHS services (Framework for Action) would have on health services provided at the Whittington.  In particular, Panel Members required further clarification on what were the implications of the independent status of Whittington Hospital Foundation Trust and its involvement in the London review consultation (i.e. what role would the Whittington have in the review process once being independent of NHS control?).

·        In this scrutiny review the Panel would be seeking to assess why the Whittington has applied for FT status, how the Whittington would use new freedoms allowed under Foundation Trust status, the impact Foundation Trust status will have upon Haringey services and the people that use them and consider the adequacy of planned consultation process by the Whittington.

Agreed: The Panel agreed that the aims and terms of reference as set out in the documentation be approved.