RCN responds to Public Accounts Committee report

Published: 22 March 2013

Under embargo: 00:01 Friday 22 March 2013

The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) today responded to a report published by the Public Accounts Committee into NHS efficiency savings.

Dr Peter Carter, Chief Executive & General Secretary of the RCN said: “This report contains worrying signals that decisions in the NHS are too often being made simply on the basis of cost. Not only are certain treatments being rationed, we are also concerned that nursing care itself is starting to be rationed. Of course the NHS has to be financially healthy, but this won’t be achieved in the long term if Trusts are living on the edge, either financially or in terms of care.

“Financial instability, a reduced and demoralised workforce and a lack of focus on quality care have been shown to be a recipe for disaster in the NHS. This report should serve as a wake-up call for those who think that costs can be cut without affecting care. Nurses on the front line will want to see where the results of cost-savings are being reinvested in patient care, whether it is in hospitals or in the community.”

Ends

Notes for Editors

1. For further information, please contact the RCN Media Office on 02076473633, press.office@rcn.org.uk or visit http://www.rcn.org.uk/newsevents/media

2. The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) is the voice of nursing across the UK and is the largest professional union of nursing staff in the world. The RCN promotes the interest of nursing staff and patients on a wide range of issues and helps shape healthcare policy by working closely with the UK Government and other national and international institutions, trade unions, professional bodies and voluntary organisations.