05.12.12
Solving the puzzle
The call from SSNAP for seven-day working reiterates a recent and recurrent trend for working arrangements that cover weekends and bank holidays as well as the normal 9 to 5.
But those behind the audit have grasped that good care all week long is about more than simply extending shifts and schedules. Most importantly, the health service needs extra staff to plug that gap, and avoid stretching the current workforce, at the detriment of both staff and patients.
It is a complex puzzle to solve and will require a completely new approach to managing the workforce.
Without the human resources to support seven day working, the health service will only end up with a strained staff that affords less and less time to each individual patient.
Tell us what you think – have your say below, or email us directly at [email protected]