Staffordshire GPs group slammed for refusing to attend meeting

Representatives from GP First Ltd were invited to speak about themselves at the Stafford and Surrounds Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) meeting.

But bosses from the company wrote to the board saying it would be 'totally inappropriate' for them to be there.

The CCG is planning to approach GP First Ltd and possibly award them a contract to deliver primary care services in the community, such as care for people in the own homes suffering with dementia.

Every surgery in Stafford and Cannock has signed up to the newly-formed GP First Ltd.

But at the meeting, CCG chairwoman Dr Anne-Marie Houlder, said: "I'm disappointed with this outcome. It's a chance that has been lost."

And board member Jackie Brown added: "This reflects the immaturity of the organisation."

Support Stafford Hospital campaigner Sue Hawkins, who was at Tuesday's meeting, said: "It's so bitterly disappointing that GP First felt it was totally inappropriate' to be here."

Another campaigner Karen Howells made the point that GP First is a company that is there to make a profit. She added: "It's a big white elephant in the room. GPs will profit from this. Is that morally right?"

GP First's managing director Steve Powell wrote to the board saying the group would be happy to provide the governing body of the CCG with a briefing document which could be shared with the public at the next meeting.

But Baswich Councillor Ann Edgeller was far from happy with the suggestion.

She said: "If you ask people they won't know who GP First are. I really feel they owe an explanation to the public to explain exactly who they are."

Stafford & Surrounds Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) is made up of 14 GP practices situated within the boundaries of Stafford Borough Council and the Brewood and Penkridge areas of South Staffordshire.

In April 2013, the CCG became responsible for commissioning services on behalf of a population of around 144,000 people.

Its aim is to improve the health and healthcare of the local population and to reduce any health inequalities wherever possible.