IT is appalling that the current situation with regard to Chippenham's Marshfield Surgery and Dr B J Williams should have been allowed to continue for so long.
The Kennet and North Wiltshire Primary Care Trust has failed to deal responsibly with the situation regarding Marshfield Surgery, and the position of Dr Williams who has received formal notice of termination of personal medical services contract, the reason being given being that he broke his contract to provide out of hours cover from October 2002. The reason given is unsound and not yet proven.
Unfortunately it is necessary to remind the trust again that Dr Williams' partners broke away and with the help of the Health Authority set up a rival practice. Later on, the first out of hours co-operative was formed to 'take the pressure off' overworked GPs.
It is appreciated that no GP can perform to maximum efficiency if expected to work 24 hours a day. Dr Williams applied to join the co-operative but his application was rejected. How could Dr Williams promote cover when he was not allowed to join the co-operative set up to assist GPs with the work load?
It has been stated verbally and in writing that every doctor associated with the co-operative had voted not to accept Dr Williams. It is further understood that he was informed by the co-operative that any partners in the practice or doctors working with him would also not be allowed to join.
It is of great concern that at least 3,580 patients of Dr Williams could be without GP cover after March 31. Patients must have continuity of cover.
The following questions remain to be answered Mrs Smith:
What provision has the trust made for patients affected by your decision to terminate the services of Dr Williams? Apparently none.
When and if you intend to foist 3,580 patients on to doctors in other practices, what will their reaction be? Bearing in mind that they have already rejected Dr Williams, will the patients be rejected?
What action are you taking Mrs Smith? Time is running out.
Positive action by the trust is long overdue. Action taken must resolve the problem satisfactorily.
Forget the bureaucracy and negotiate with Dr Williams. If the trust fails to resolve the situation it might as well remove the care from the title of primary care trust.
VICTOR JUST
East Tytherton
Chippenham
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