23.08.13
Monitor takes action against Queen Elizabeth FT
Further action is being taken against Queen Elizabeth Hospital King’s Lynn NHS Foundation Trust, Monitor has announced.
The trust has failed to meet conditions of its licence, by failing to meet the national target on waiting times for A&E for three consecutive quarters. A recent CQC report also raised concerns around some safety and quality standards not being met.
The proposed recovery plan submitted to Monitor failed to demonstrate how the trust could return to financial sustainability. The trust has since assured the regulator it will address the failings highlighted by the CQC, implement an A&E recovery plan and bring in external support for a long-term solution.
Andrea Gordon, deputy director of operations (regions) for CQC, said: “Although our inspectors saw some good practice, the failings we found at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital are a real concern.
"CQC has been working to ensure the safety and wellbeing of people receiving this service and we have told the trust changes need to be made."
Kate Gordon, chair of The Queen Elizabeth Hospital King's Lynn NHS Foundation Trust, said: “We are obviously very concerned by the findings of the CQC inspection.
“Our aim is always to provide safe, high-quality care and we are very sorry that, in some cases, patients, carers and families have experienced poor care.”
Monitor’s regional director, Mark Turner said: “Since we first stepped in at this trust, further issues have arisen and the trust’s financial position has deteriorated.
“We are concerned about the issues identified by the CQC report and expect the trust to take steps to rectify these problems and make sure it delivers appropriate care for its patients.
“We will also use our regulatory powers to ensure that the Trust: takes steps to achieve the A&E national waiting time target; addresses its financial performance, and undertakes an independent review of how the Trust ensures it delivers high quality care.”
Tell us what you think – have your say below, or email us directly at [email protected]