Fears over transfer of GP service

An out-of-hours GP service covering Kidderminster is to be transferred to a private company in July sparking fears quality of care will suffer in the rush to make profits.

The service, for the whole of Worcestershire, was introduced after doctors were given new contracts allowing them to opt out of weekend work in December 2004.

It is currently run by Worcestershire PCT where patients dial a number and are given advice on where they should go according to the level of emergency.

Under the service there are currently five sites where emergency treatment can be given including Kidderminster, Worcester, Redditch, Malvern and Evesham.

The company to take over the contract has not yet been agreed - but an announcement is expected to be made in the next fortnight.

A source speaking to the Express & Star today said: "There are concerns that the number of sites where people can get treatment may be reduced. The focus for a private company is the need to make money... not the quality of care.

Worcestershire PCT said: "The PCT has tendered for a new Out of Hours service because the public have quite rightly demanded that we improve."